Records of Fort Sullivai? 


4 4 4 Printed for ♦ * . 


Tioga Poii^t 

historical Society 



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ERRATA. 


1. “Nukerck’s Sketch of Tioga Point,” should appear under dia¬ 
gram on back of title page. 

3. Cammander-in-chief (page 54) should read Commander-in-chief. 

3 I immediately transmitted your account to Congress. (Omitted 
after Newtown, in Washington’s instructions to General Sullivan, 
page 54.) 

4 The name Philip Heltes (under heading ‘‘Soldiers Buried at 
Tioga Point,” page 55,) should read Philip Helter. 

5. Under heading of “Soldiers Buried at Tioga Point,” (page 55) 
Sergt. Dement should read Sergt. Demeret. 






















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Order Book of Fort Sullivan 


.. . AND . .. 


Extracts from Journals of Soldiers in Gen. Sullivan's 
Army Relating to 

FORT SULLIVAN 

. ♦ ♦ at . . ♦ 

Tioga Point, Pennsylvania, 

1779. 


Published at the Suggestion of 

The Tioga Chapter, 

DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION, 

COMPILED FROM MSS. IN THE CRAFT COLLECTION, 
TIOGA POINT HISTORICAL SOCIETY 
. . . by . . . 

LOUISE WELLES MURRAY. 

n 

1903. 







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GENERAL SULLIVAN. 














Home and iVLonument of General Sullivan 





















































PREFACE. 


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After the unveiling of boulder, Oct. 3, 1903, there 

proved to be so- much conjecture about Fort Sullivan that 
it was suggested extracts from journals should he published 
in one of our newspapers. Previous to the Newtown 
Centennial all these journals had been collected and copied 
by Rev. David Craft, and in 1897 he deposited the Mss. in 
our museum, with a copy of the order book, obtained in 
1879, from the grandson of the Orderly. It was therefore 
decided to embody in one pamphlet the order book, never 
before published; and the extracts (though long since 
printed in “General Sullivan’s Indian Expedition”). The 
whole will be valuable for reference at least to the inhabi¬ 
tants of old Tioga, and interesting, we hope, to' all the 
Chapters of Daughters of the American Revolution along 
Sullivan’s route. On account of repetition some extracts 
are omitted. The copy of portrait of Sullivan was pre¬ 
sented to the Tioga Point Historical Society by Mr. Charles 
F. Murray in 1897 . The original is now in the possession of 
Wyoming Historical Society. 

The picture showing Sullivan’s 'house at Durham, 
N. H., and his monument was obtained by the kindness of 
Mrs. W. H. H. Gore, member of Tioga Chapter, D. A. R., 
and of Historical Society. 

The sketch of Tioga Point -and fort, which was made 
originally by Lieut. Nukerck, was copied for this publica¬ 
tion by Surveyor N. F. Walker. The original, hastily 
made, had but three block houses not at angles. As all the 
journals mention four and Nukerck’s sketch has proved 
misleading; in this sketch block houses are omitted. Sulli¬ 
van’s conduct in this expedition was the subject of severe 
criticism, which he bore in silence, such was his love for 


6 


Washington. Washington’s letters of instruction, included 
in this pamphlet, prove that Sullivan only obeyed orders. 

Major General John Sullivan was born at Somers- 
worth, N. H., Feb. 18, 1740, and at the date of this expedi¬ 
tion was only thirty-nine years of age. Owing to exposure 
during the expedition, and the condition of his business, 
by reason of his long absence, he asked leave to retire from 
the army November, 1779. He was, however, throughout 
his life, connected with public affairs. He died January 
2 7, 1795, at Durham, N. H. 

The seal of our society is taken from a map made by 
Lieut. Lodge, surveyor with Sullivan, and in our museum 
are a number of lead bullets and one large cannon ball 
picked up within the enclosure of the Fort, the latter by 
Wm. Parry, Capt. John Franklin and Capt. Simon Spald¬ 
ing who afterwards settled here, were with Sullivan, also 
private Solomon Taladay, whose daughter is still alive in 
1903. 



ORDERS AT FORT SULLIVAN. 

From the order book of Thomas E. Gee in possession 
of Rev. Horace Gee, Ithaca, New York. -Copied from the 
original by Rev. David Craft in 1879. 

* * 

* 

Fort Sullivan, August 27, 1779. 

General Orders : 

Captain of the day, Myers. 

All persons unfit for duty are to parade, if able, in 
front of the hospital to-morrow morning at g o’clock, to be 
examined by the surgeon of the hospital. All the women 
in the garrison, except those who are employed as nurses 
in the hospital, and those that are absolutely necessary 
to wash for the troops, are to be in readiness at the shortest 
notice to go on board the boats for Wyoming, where 
they are to draw provisions until the army returns to that 
post. Returns of those that are to remain to be made 
out by the commanding officer of their respective Bri¬ 
gades, Detachments, etc., to' be lodged with the com¬ 
manding officer of this post by to-morrow morning. Those 
women who can produce certificates from their officers that 
they are left to> take the charge of baggage or for any other 
necessary purpose will be allowed to stay, all others who 
shall presume to stay here after the departure of the boats, 
may be assured they will draw no provisions at this post. 
Colonel Antis is directed to' assemble the boatmen and have 
the roll called regularly at Troop and Retreat beating. The 
troop to beat regularly at 7 o’clock in the morning. All 
men that are fit for duty, exclusive of the Guard, are to go 
on fatigue duty, until the works be completed. 

Guards as yesterday. 

* * 

* 

Fort Sullivan, August 28, 1779. 

Garrison Orders : 

Officer of the day, Weathersby. 

Vaults are immediately to be sunk within the Garrison 
at proper distance from the lines. Two small and fifty- 
three large boats, properly manned, are to set out this 


8 


evening at Retreat beating, for Wyoming, under the direc¬ 
tion of Major Dow, £>. Q. M. G. Capt. Day, with a 
party of 30 men is to go as an escort on board. Those 
women who shall presume to stay, without written per¬ 
mits as above mentioned, may depend on being sent in an¬ 
other party of boats without provisions. All officers, sol¬ 
diers, boatmen, and others bound to Wyoming are immed¬ 
iately to draw and cook provisions to the 29th instant in¬ 
clusive, as there will be no time allowed to cook on the 
passage. 

Lieut. White is requested to do Adjutant’s duty to the 
detachment from Gen’l Maxwell’s and Hand’s Brigades, 
vice Lt. Newcastle, who is going to Wyoming. 

* * 

* 

Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, August 29, 1779. 
Parole. Countersign. 

Capt. of the Day, Orson. 

On account of the scarcity of flour, the commanding 
officer of the Garrison is under the disagreeable necessity 
of reducing the daily rations of that article to ten ounces, 
but hoping a sufficient number of cattle are left on this 
ground that may be brought in, one pound and a half of 
beef will be issued daily and half a pint of rice per week per 
man. The commanding officer assures the Garrison that as 
soon as the boats arrive with the provision and stores from 
Wyoming, this deficiency shall be fully made up, and a 
plentiful allowance of liquor. It is expected that every 
officer and soldier will cheerfully submit to this scanty al¬ 
lowance of flour, rather than live several days without any, 
which must unavoidably be the case, unless the rations are 
diminished. The officers from the several Brigades are to 
see their men immediately completed with cartridges, and 
their arms kept in the best order. When the men go to 
rest, their arms to be placed in such a manner that in case 
of a sudden alarm, they can immediately turn out fit for 
action. Should this post be attacked, every person must be 
sensible there is no retreat, and to surrender to savages is 
worse than death. Spiritedly to> defend the works, to con¬ 
quer or bravely perish is the determined resolution of the 
commanding officer, and he has not the least doubt that 
every officer and soldier will stand by him to the last with 
undaunted bravery. For the security ol the Garrison, it is 


9 


of the greatest importance to complete the works as soon 
as possible. The commanding officer therefore calls upon 
every officer and soldier of duty to* turn out cheerfully and 
to* give every assistance in their power. If an indolent dis¬ 
position is suffered to prevail among the. troops the safety 
not only o*f the Garrison, but of the whole army must be in 
danger; as the magazines of the army are at this post every¬ 
thing depends upon he security of it. An exact return to 
be made to the commanding officer as soon as possible of 
•every person in the Garrison. 

Guards as usual. 

* * 

* 

Garrison Orders, August 30 , 1779 . 
Oapt. of the day tomorrow—Wool. 

All non-commissioned officers and soldiers in this Gar¬ 
rison who are unfit for duty are to be immediately sent to 
the hospital, as it is highly necessary that the sick should 
be separated from those that are well. After the close 
of this month provisions are to be issued regularly one in 
two days. Each Brigade or Detachment to draw together 
the artillery, artifices, boatmen and staff officers in their 
different Departments respectfully, in order that the com¬ 
missary may be able to keep his accounts properly. 

A Garrison Court Martial to sit to-morrow morning 
at the President’s Quarters at g o’clock for the trial of all 
such prisioners as shall be brought before them. The 
Court Martial to consist of five members. 

Sub. S. C. S’ds. 

Details 1 1 1 23 

* * 

* 

Garrison Orders, August 31 , 1779 . 

All the boatman who arrived this day from Chemung 
are immediately to draw and cook two days provisions, 
that they may be in readiness to set out at sunset for 
Wyoming. 

The Surgeons of the Hospital are to send such sick and 
wounded at they think necessary or expedient by this con¬ 
veyance. 

Guards as usual. 

Sub. S C. S’drs. 

Details 1 11 23 


10 


Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 1 , 1779 . 
Captain of the Day tomorrow—Weatherbv. 

At a Garrison Court Martial, whereof Captain Merril 
was President, was tried John Emersly, soldier for stealing' 
and selling clothing belonging to Catherine Castner, was 
found guilty and sentenced to receive one hundred lashes 
on his bare back well laid on, at the head of the troops in 
the garrison and be put under monthly stoppages of half 
his pay until Catherine Lambertson is paid forty five 
dollars which she paid for the clothing, and Catherine 
Castner is paid fifteen dollars for stockings and sleeve 
buttons not yet found—the commanding officer approves 
the sentence, and orders it to be put in execution this even¬ 
ing at roll call. 



Sub. 

Corp. 

Soldiers. 

Details 

1 

2 

* * 

* 

23 


Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 2 , 1779 . 
Captain of the day tomorrow—Orson. 

A fatigue party consisting of 34 of the most healthy 
and strongest men to be turned out to-morrow by cletail- 
Sargeants Brown and Dugan with Corporal Lewis are to- 
attend the party daily. The axeman are to be under the 
direction of Lieut. Osman, who is exempted from their duty 
till the works are finished. 

Sub K. C. Soldiers. 

Detail for guard 112 24 

* * 

* 

Garrison Orders, Fort Sullivan, September 3 , 1779 . 

Officer of the day, Wool. 

Two camp colorme.n are to be immediately turned out 
from each Brigade Detachment and put under the direction 
of George Campbell of the 2nd Jersey Regiment. They 
are immediately to set about cleaning the camp from every 
kind of filth, they are to sink proper necessaries, to cover 
them daily, and when full to make others; they will be 
excused from all other duty, but are to' keep their arms in 
good order to act when called upon. Any person or persons 
who may be found easing themselves within the stockades 
may expect immediate and severe punishment without the 
benefit of a Court Martial, as the comfort and health of 


11 


the Garrison depend much upon cleanliness, all officers are 
required to attend to this order and to see that it is 
punctually extended. The troops are forbid crossing either 
of the rivers, or going beyond the front sentinels without 
permission from the commanding officer, the forage master 
is excepted from this order, who* is always o cut his grass 
under cover of the cannon, to* see that his party take their 
arms, and to place proper sentinels for their security. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 4, 1779. 
Officer of the day, Myers. 

Tattoes in future cease beating. Fatigue and guards 
as usual. In consequence of the tattoes not being beat, the 
sentries are to challenge at dusk. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 5, 1779. 
Captain of the day, Weathersby—Adjutant, Adams. 

Notwithstanding previous orders, it is found that many 
of the arms of the Garrison are all together unfit for action. 
The officers commanding detachments from the several 
Brigades are most earnestly called upon to see that such 
arms as can be repaired are immediately taken to the 
Armorers for that purpose, and that such as cannot be put 
in order by them, be exchanged for better. The bayonets 
are to be taken from the bad arms and fitted to the good 
in order that troops may be completed with this weapon 
so essentially necessary in the defense of works. The 
officers in the several staff dpartments, except the Surgeons, 
are as soon as may be to furnish themselves, their assistants 
and deputies with musquets or fusees and bayonets. The 
Artificers are also to be furnished with arms and ammu¬ 
nition. The whole of the troops without exception are to 
hold themselves in the most perfect readiness to turn out 
equipped for action at the shortest notice. In consequence 
of certain intelligence of a speedy supply of provision, 
the commissary is directed to issue the usual ration of flour 
and beef. 

Serg’t. C. Soldiers. 

Details for guards 1 2 24 


12 


Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 6th, 1779. 

Captain of the Hay, Orson. Adjutant—White. 

The troops are positively forbid making fires under 
any pretence whatever in that quarter of the garrison where 
the military stores are kept. 

Sub. Serg’. Corp. Soldiers. 

Details for guards 1 2 1 23 

OOO 

Fort Sullivan, September 7, 1779. 
Captain of the day, McCluer—Adjutant, Adams. 

The commanding officer of the Artillery is required 
to be particularly attentive that no fires are made that will 
in the least degree endanger the magazine of ammunition. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 8, 1779. 

Captain of the day—Wool—Adjutant, White. 

The commissary is directed to issue provision accord¬ 
ing to General Sullivan’s order, that is, one pound of flour, 
•one pound and a quarter of beef, or one pound of pork per 
ration to all persons without distinction. No spirits are 
to be issued without orders from the commanding officer of 
this garrison, except to fatigue men by an order signed by 
the commissioned officer who commands the party, the 
quantity issued to non-commissioned officers, soldiers or 
artificers never to exceed a gill at a time. 

The boatmen are immediately to unload, bale and 
thoroughly clean out all the boats. They are by no means 
to remove or make use of any of the boards, planks or other 
articles belonging to the boats on any account whatever. 

To-morrow morning a party is to be turned out from 
the fleet sufficient to bring up the boats that are drifted and 
gone ashore, between this and Tyugo Plains. They are 
also' to immediately sink vaults at a proper distance from 
their encampment. 

All the horses are in future to be kept without the 
garrison. 

The officer of the day is requested to see that orders 
respecting the boatmen are punctually executed. 

A garrison court martial consisting of five members to 
sit this day at the President’s Quarters for the trial of such 
prisoners as shall be brought before them. 


13 


The Brigade Major is directed immediately to make 
out a return of all such Captains and Subalterns as have 
done regular duty at this Garrison, that a proportion of 
spirits may be allowed them. The commanding officer ex¬ 
pects the officers unfit for duty receive necessaries from the 
hospital. 

Sub. Serg’t. Corp. Soldiers. 

Details for Guard 1 2 1 25 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 9 , 1779. 

Captain of the day, Day—Adjutant, Adams. 

Returns are called for of the officers in the several staff 
departments except the surgeons, who are actually doing 
duty at this post, also of the officers of the line, unfit for 
duty. The officers commanding company of boatmen are 
once more requested immediately to make out rolls of all 
under their command, and see that they are regularly called 
every evening and morning at the usual hour. They are 
to make exact returns of all present and lodge them with 
Major Dow, D. Q. M. G., who is also directed to appoint a 
farrier, or some proper person to take care of the public 
horses now straying about the encampment, in order that 
they may be fit for service when the army returns. All the 
drums and fifes in the Garrison are in future to do duty 
together. They are to assemble on the Grand Parade for 
that purpose. A canon is to be fired for Reville and Re¬ 
treat, the troop to beat at y o’clock in the morning. The 
Drum Major to pay particular attention to> this order. 

The officers of the different Brigade Detachments are 
directed to be particularly attentive to the arms and accou¬ 
trements of their troops under their command and see that 
they are put in he best order by the 13 th instant, when they 
are to be reviewed by the commanding officer of the Garri- 


son. 

Sub. 

Serg. 

Corp. 

Soldiers. 

Details 

1 

1 

000 

2 

25 


Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 10, 1779. 
Captain ol the day, Myers—Adjutant, While. 

Major Morrison, the commanding officer of the fleet, 
- is directed to see that boatmen immediately clean their arms 
and put them in the best firing order, that every man is 


14 


completed with the ordinary proportion of cartridges and 
to be particularly number for issuing. 

The artificers and boatmen are to make their returns 
to the D. Q. M. G. The commissary is directed to issue 
2 lbs. of butter to< each officer of the line at this post. 

Was lost in Garrison, a common chest key. Who¬ 
ever has found it and will return it to Lieut. Gray shall be 
handsomely rewarded. 


Details 

Sub. 

Serg. 

c 

P. 

Clinton’s 

0 

2 

1 

25 

Maxwell’s 

1 

1 

2 

23 



000 



He ad-Quarte rs, 

Fort Sui 

JAVA N 

, Septnn 

Captain of the 

day, Wool 

—Mi 1 

itant, 

Adi 


The rear guard is hereafter to' have the charge of the 
cattle and to take their direction from Commissary Pratt. 
As soon as the sick from the army arrive, a return of the 
whole Garrison is to be made to the Brigade Major, spec¬ 
ifying those fit and unfit for duty. The invalids and all 
supernumeray officers that have no particular charge of 
baggage are to go> to Wyoming, as soon as convenient. 
All women that are not absolutely necessary as nurses in 
the hospital or to> wash for the troops are also to go down 
to that post. All the artificers, without exception, are to 
consider themselves under the immediate command of 
Major Dow, D. Q. M. G., and punctually obey his orders. 
The whole Garrison to draw each a gill of whiskey this 
evening, the return to be made out in detachments from 
Brigades, and signed by the commanding officers respec¬ 
tively. A court of inquiry, of which Captain Tudor is 
appointed President, to sit this day at his quarters to' ex¬ 
amine the conduct of Mr. Neilson, A. C. of Issue, respect¬ 
ing orders sent the surgeon of the hospital for wine and 
other necessaries. 


Details 

Sub. 

Serg. 

Corp. 

Privates. 

Clinton’s 

0 

1 

2 

25 

Maxwell’s 

1 

2 

1 

23 


000 

Fort Surlivan, September 14, 1779. 
Captain of the day tomorrow, Day—Adjutant, White. 

A detachment of too men properly officered, one three 
pounder, and artillerymen sufficient to work it, twenty small 
boats manned with ioo boatmen under the care of Major 


15 


Morrison, to be immediately turned out, the whole to be 
under the command of Captain Reid. Lieut. Colbreth, 
from his knowledge of the guard, is requested to go with 
the party; the troops to draw and cook two days’ provision 
and be in perfect readiness to march to-morrow morning 
at sunrise. Capt. Reid will call upon the commanding 
officer this evening for his orders. The boats are to be 
immediately taken round in the Tioga branch where they 
will be loaded agreeable to Commissary James Pratt’s 
directions, who is to take charge of the stores. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 15, 1779. 
•Captain of the day, Morril—Adjutant— 

A subaltern, sergeant, corporal and fourteen men are 
to be in readiness to go as an escort to the sick ordered to 
Wyoming. Captain Dougherty is to turn out fifty boat¬ 
men to man ten small boats and to proceed with them to 
that post; the whole are to be under the particular direction 
of Lieutenant Asman (Ashman or Osborne). The sur¬ 
geon of the hospital is to make a return of the sick and 
wounded this day by two o’clock, all who are most likely 
to continue unfit for duty are to go down with the boats. 
The supernumerary commissaries, Neilson and Gibbons, 
are ordered to Wyoming not to return, as there is no busi¬ 
ness for them to transact at this post. All supernumerary 
women are also directed to go by this opportunity to that 
post, agreeable to the orders of the 13 th instant. All per¬ 
sons ordered to Wyoming are to draw provisions so as 
to make up two days, exclusive of this day, and cook it this 
afternoon, so as to be in perfect readiness to set out to¬ 
morrow morning precisely at sunrise. 

000 

Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 16, 1779. 

Officer of the day, Myers—Adjutant, White. 

The officer of the day is to* direct that a sufficient num¬ 
ber of men be turned out to-morrow morning to assist the 
camp color men in thoroughly cleansing the whole Gar¬ 
rison, particularly that part where the hospital stands. 

No non-commissioned officer or soldier is to presume 
to ride any horse about the Garrison without liberty first 
•obtained from the D. Q. M. G. 


16 


Fort Sullivan, September 17, 1779. 
Officer of the clay for tomorrow, Capt. Weatherby—Adjutant, 
Adams. 

Commissary Woodman is directed immediately to 
employ a sufficient number of beakers for the Garrison and 
issue soft bread instead of flour to all the troops without 
exception. A court martial to sit to-morrow morning at 
the President’s Quarters for the trial of Joseph Putney. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 18, 1779. 

Captain of the day, Tudor. Adjutant, White. 

The troops are positively forbid to remove or make 
use of any hay or grass cut by the forage master without his 
permission. 

After orders : 

At a Garrison Court Martial whereof Capt. Monel is 
President, Joseph Putney of the third New York Regiment, 
was tried for sleeping on his post, was found guilty and 
sentenced to> receive ioo lashes on his naked back, the com¬ 
manding officer approves the sentence and orders it put in 
execution this evening at roll call. The above Court Mar¬ 
tial is dissolved. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 19, 1779. 
Officer of the day for tomorrow, Aorson, Adjutant, Adams. 

The horses and cattle are in future to be kept in the 
rear of the Garrison, without the stockade. No- kind of 
filth to be thrown or made between the abbattis and line of 
stockade. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 20, 1779. 
Captain of the day, Day—Adjutant, White. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 21, 1779. 
Officer of the day for tomorrow, Capt. Wool, Adjutant, Ad¬ 
ams. 

The officers of the Garrison are requested to use the 
public horses only when duty requires their being on horse¬ 
back, otherwise when the army returns they will be alto- 


17 


gether unfit for service. There has lately been such unnec¬ 
essary use made of these creatures that the commanding 
officer is confident every gentleman in the Garrison must 
see the propriety of this order. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Fort Sullivan, September 22, 1779. 
Officer of the Day for tomorrow, Cap. Thirstin—Adjutant, 
White. 

A Court Martial to sit to-morrow morning at g o’clock 
for the trial of such prisoners as shall be brought before 
them. 

000 

Fort Sullivan, September 23, 1779. 
Officer of the day for tomorrow, Capt. Morrill—Adjutant, 
Adams. 

On account of the severity of duty and fatigue the 
ration of soft bread is to be increased from one pound to one 
and one-fourth pounds. Thomas Hilliard, of Col. Day¬ 
ton’s Regiment, tried by a Court Martial whereof Capt. 
Weatherly was President, for stealing leather and insulting 
Sergeant Brown, found guilty and sentenced to receive 50 
lashes, the commandent approves the sentence and orders 
is executed this evening at roll call. 

Tattoes in future to be at 9 o’clock at which time the 
soldiery are to repair to their quarters without noise. The 
officer of the day is to see this order put in execution and 
delinquents brought to punishment. 

After Orders. 

On account of the former good character of Thomas 
Hilliard, the commanding officer thinks proper to pardon 
him. 

000 

Fort Sullivan, September 24, 1779. 
Officer for the day, Capt. Myers. Adjutant—White. 

000 

Fort Sullivan, September 25, 1779. 
Captain of the day, Weatherby—Adjutant, Adams. 

All the bakers of the Garrison are put under the im¬ 
mediate directions of Commissary Woodman and (all are) 
strictly observe this order. 


18 


The commandent once more forbids firing- of guns in 
the vicinity of the Garrison. The officers of the day are 
requested if possible, to detect the culprits that they may be 
brought to immediate punishment. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 26, 1779. 
Officer of the day for tomorrow, Capt. Tudor—Adjutant, 
White. 

On account of the uneasiness occasioned in delivering 
bread, the commissary is directed in future to' issue flour 
to the troops, the bakers of the Garrison are to return 
eighteen ounces of bread for each pound of flour they 
receive. They are further ordered not to presume to ask 
more than one dollar for every four pounds of bread they 
sell to the soldiery. Disobedience of this order will meet 
with severe punishment. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 27, 1779. 
Officer of the day. Capt. Aorson—Adjutant, Adams. 

The officers of the Garrison may draw two gallons 
of whiskey each. The commanding officer is sorry it is 
not in his power to add rum without doing the highest 
injustice to those officers who have for a month past 
encountered the greatest difficulties through a savage 
country, as there is but a very small proportion for them 
on their return. The Commandant is confident that every 
gentleman at this post must see the propriety of this order. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 28, 1779. 
Officer of the day, Capt. Day. Adjutant, White. 

All the troops off duty to turn out on fatigue to¬ 
morrow morning at troop beating for the purpose of sweep¬ 
ing and otherwise cleaning the Garrison, to take direction 
from the officer of the day. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 29, 1779. 
Captain of the day, Wool. 

There is no whiskey to be issued to the troops that 
arrive from the army until evening, when an exact return 
is to be made out and signed by the commanding officers 


19 


of Brigade Detachments. The pack horses that come in are 
to be sent below and by no means kept about the Garrison. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, September 30, 1779. 
Captain of |the day, Dustin. 

As there is no immediate alteration to take place, 
provisions to be drawn and garrison duty done as usual. 

ooo 

Fort Sullivan, October 1, 1779. 

Captain of the day. 

A very exact return of this Garrison to be made by 
to-morrow morning at 9 o’clock, including the sick in 
hospital, etc. 

ooo 

GENERAL ORDERS. 

Head-Quarters, Tyoga, October 1, 1779. 
Drigadier for tomorrow, General Poor. Field Officer, Major 
Whiting—Brigade Major, Marshall. 

Commissary Steel and Mr. Pemberton will immedi¬ 
ately repair for Wyoming to make the necessary provision 
for the army against their arrival. 

Mr. Pratt will take charge of the stores of this place. 

Quarter Master Dow will make a return of all the 
boats at this post as soon as possible with an estimate of 
the number of men they will carry. 

Returns of all the horses in the Quarter Masters and 
Commissary departments, as also the commissary of military 
stores to be made against nine o’clock to-morrow morning, 
also a return of all the men in each brigade and corps in the 
whole army at this post to be made at the same time. 

A return of all the horses in the army, private as well 
as public property to be made against orderly time to¬ 
morrow. The Brigadiers and officers commanding corps 
will see that those returns from their several commands 
be just and accurate. 

Mr. Kirkpatrick, A. Q. M., will report to Wyoming 
to assist Col. Sheriff in making the necessary preparations 
for the reception of the army, who will furnish him with 
a copy of this order. 


20 


Col. Sheriff will procure ioo good wagons for removing" 
the baggage of the army from Wyoming to Easton. They 
will also apply to Col. Butler who will also furnish two- 
thirds of the men in Garrison who are best able to endure 
fatigue tO' repair the roads from Wyoming to' Learned’s 
tavern and put them in the best order. He will also write 
to Captain Patterson to send as many as can be spared 
from his post to put the road in the best order between 
Brinker’s Mill and Learne’s tavern. 

All the artificers on the ground are to take their orders, 
from Quarter Master Dow, to whom returns of all the 
stores in the Quarter Master’s department are to be made 
by Mr. Kirkpatrick before he leaves this ground. All the 
boats are to be collected and put in proper repair as soon 
as possible. 

A Board of General Officers to set to-morrow morn¬ 
ing at 9 o’clock to settle the relative rank of Col. Proctor 
and the officers of Col. Proctor’s Regiment. 

The commissary is not to issue any provisions to the 
Artificers without an order from Quarter Master Dow. 

Lieut. Whittock of the First New Jersey Regiment is 
appointed tO' adjutant of the same and is to be respected 
accordingly. ooo 

Head-Quarters, Tyoga, October 2, 1779. 
Brigadier for tomorrow, General Clinton. Field officer Major 
Piatt. Brigade Major, Fish. 

A General Court Martial of which General Hand is 
appointed president, to sit to-morrow morning at 9 o’clock 
at a Marque near headquarter for the trial of Lieut. Col. 
Regnier and such officers as are under arrest. 

By a General Court Martial, whereof Col. Weisenfelt 
is president, Ensign and Quarter Master Kindry of the- 
Sixth Massachusetts Regiment was tried, charged with 
neglect of duty in absenting himself from his Regiment 
when called to action on the 29 th of August last. The. 
court after hearing the evidences are of opinion that Mr. 
Kindry is not guilty of the charge exhibited against him *- 
that it is malitious and slanderous and do> therefore acquit 
him with honor. 

AFTER ORDERS. 

The troops to be served with six days’ provisions of 
flour to-morrow, and two days’ beef to-morrow evening,. 


21 


inclusive of what they may have on hand, which is to 
be cooked to-morrow night. 

The residue of the commissary’s stores to be loaded 
to-morrow on board the boats. All the Quarter Master 
and other public stores to be also loaded to-morrow. 

The Commander-in-Chief returns his most sincere 
thanks to Col. Shreve and his Garrison for their industry 
and attention to the safety and comfort of the army while 
absent, and the very prudent steps which he pursued to 
render the situation of the army comfortable on its return. 

The Garrison is dismissed and ordered to evacuate 
the fort to-morrow morning at 7 o’clock and join their 
respective corps. Col. Proctor will withdraw the artillery 
at the same time. 

The troops annexed to> General Hand’s Brigade will 
join their respective corps. 

The covering parties will also' join their respective 
Regiments. The two flanking divisions will be incorpor¬ 
ated into one, and flank the left of the army on its return. 
500 men to parade to-morrow morning at 8 o’clock for 
fatigue. The field officers of the day will call on the Ad¬ 
jutant General for instructions. 

The army will be in perfect readiness to-morrow to 
move early the next morning. All deficiencies of cartridges 
to be made up and the arms to be put in good order. The 
sick, lame and those without shoes to- go down in the boats. 

The Quarter Master will call for additional men to 
work the boats if necessary. 

All the artillery corps will gO' to Wyoming in boats. 
Fifty men from each Brigade, in two divisions each, will go 
off to> Wyoming early in the morning to> drive on all the 
horses and cattle that can be found. The Brigadiers of the 
day will point out their route. 

The army marches in the following order, viz: Clin¬ 
ton and Poor’s Brigades, then the pack horses and cattle, 
then Maxwells and Hand’s, the rifle men in rear of General 
Hand’s. All of Col. Proctor’s horses will be delivered to 
the conductor of horses. All the baggage that can possibly 
be spared on the march will be sent by water; for which 
purpose the Quarter Master will furnish boats. Those 
corps which have not a sufficiency of horses to carry their 
tents will apply to the Quarter Master to-morrow afternoon 
for more. 


22 


The conductor, of horses will collect all the horses unfit 
to carry burdens to-morrow and have them tied up and fed 
to-morrow evening. All the horses and cattle of the army 
will be confined ,and fed to-morrow night. 

The army will march at 6 o’clock. 

Here is a hiatus in the orders until October 8th. —Craft. 
ooo 

Head-Quarters, Wyoming, October 8, 1779. 
Brigadier for tomorrow, General Clinton. Field Officer, Col. 

Cortland. Brigade Major, Fish. 

Two Subaltums, 4 Sergeants, 4 Corporals and 80 pri¬ 
vates to parade at 12 o’clock precisely and to be commanded 
by Capt. Ballard, of the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment, one 
hundred men commanded by a Field officer to parade at the 
same time as a covering party to the pioneers. The com¬ 
missary will furnish the whole with six days’ provisions, 
half of their meat to be salt beef or pork. The Quarter¬ 
master will furnish the pioneers with such tools as Capt. 
Ballard shall choose. He will also furnish the detachment 
with two wagons to> carry the tools, tents, arms and pro¬ 
visions for the pioneers. 

The field officer commanding will proceed on the busi¬ 
ness of repairing the roads from this post to Easton in the 
best manner possible and as the horses of the army will be 
very weak and the wagons heavily loaded, the most particu¬ 
lar attention is requested from him and Captaih Ballard. 
When the party arrives at Easton it will wait for the arrival 
of the army. 

The detachment sent from the Garrison to repair the 
roads will return to-morrow evening, of which order the 
commanding officer of this detachment will notify them. 

The Garrison Battalion, Shoot’s corps, and Capt. 
Spaldings company to remain as a Garrison at this place, of 
which Col. Butler is to have the command. He is imme¬ 
diately to see that two hundred rounds of musquet cart¬ 
ridges for each man, and two hundred rounds for each 
piece of ordinance in the fort be set ashore for the use of 
the Garrison. The pieces of ordinance attending the army 
are to be supplied with twenty rounds each and the troops 
to be completed with twenty rounds each. 

All the residue of the ammunition and ordinance stores 
to be loaded in boats and sent down to Sunbury, of which 


23 


General Hand will take the charge ! and; give direction for 
its being safely conveyed from Sunbury to- Philadelphia. 
All the boatmen to take their direction from General Hand. 

The Quarter Master will see that all the'boats not distant 
for the purpose of conveying stores to Sunbury, be laid up 
and well secured. 

All the clothing in store to be divided in four equal 
parts and to be delivered to the several Brigades. 

No horses to be delivered to any • person on any pre¬ 
tense whatsoever, except by an order from the Commander- 
in-Chief. 

All the Quarter Master stores to be sent with the ordin¬ 
ance stores to Sunbury. 

The Doctor General will devise and as soon as possible 
report the best method of conveying the sick from hence to 
f Easton. 

A trusty officer from each Brigade 1 to go with General 
Hand to Sunbury in order to collect and convey to Head¬ 
quarters the sick and wounded to their respective Brigades. 

The troops to hold themselves in readiness to march 
on the shortest notice. No leave of absence will be given 
to any officer except he produces a written recommendation 
from his Brigadier or Commandant. 

Lieut. Col. Forrest will see that an officer and a proper 
number of artillery men be left for an immediate assign¬ 
ment for their Garrison. 

Capt. Topham will attend to' have the ammunition put 
in proper boats and will attend General Hand to Sunbury 
and there taking his instructions respecting the ordinance 
stores. 

The General returns his sincere thanks to Capt. Top- 
ham for his great attention, activity and fidelity in the de¬ 
partment of Commissary of Military Stores and Clothier- 
General to the army. The General with pleasure assures 
him that his conduct has not only afforded pleasure to him, 
but has given honorable satisfaction. 

The commissary to make an immediate return of the 
live stock and other provisions on hand. 

ADVERTISEMENT. 

LOST, on, the 4 th or 5 th instant, between Tyoga and 
Lackawaney, a parchment pocket book -with two commis¬ 
sions, one letter and two Continental bills, one forty-five and 


24 


the other eight dollars. One-half of the money will be 
given to the person who will bring it to Captain Kert, of the 
2 nd New Hampshire regiment. 

Was put by mistake in some boat at Meshupin, a bag 
containing a nest of camp kettles, coffee-pot and several 
other things too tedious to mention. Whoever will send 
them at General Poor’s marque shall receive his sincere 
thanks. 

The Garrison to join their respective corps immedi¬ 
ately. 

ooo 


Artillery Orders, October 8th, 1779. 
Officer for the day tomorrow—Captain Proctor. 

Lieut. Jesse Crossby is appointed to the Command of 
the artillery for this Garrison and is hereby directed to call 
on the commanding officer for a return of ammunition as¬ 
signed for the use of that post and to call on the adjutant 
for i sergeant, 2 corporals, 3 bumbarders and 3 gunners, 
to be ready to move into the Garrison to-morrow morning 
at seven o’clock. 

The wagon master is hereby ordered to overhaul all 
the harness belonging to the artillery pieces and wagons and 
see that they are in order so as to move to-morrow afternoon 
at 4 o’clock, and to make a return to the Quarter Master 
of the number of horses wanted for that purpose. 

The Quarter Master is to issue to each non-commis¬ 
sioned officer and mattross, one pair of shoes, excepting who 
received them at Tyoga. 


Details, 


f Capt. Wool’s 
I Capt. Craig 
] Capt. Rice 
[Capt. Bryce 


Serg’t. 

0 

0 

0 

1 


Corp. 

0 

1 

1 

0 


Bumbr. Gunner 
1 0 

1 I 

1 1 

0 1 


Totals, 12 3 3 

000 

AFTER ORDERS. 

October 8, 1779. 

The Commander-in-chief in consequence of dispatches 
just received from his excellency, General Washington, is 
under the painful necessity of denying leave of absence to 
any of the officers or soldiers of this army, being positively 
prohibited therefrom; and the Brigadiers will please write 
to such as have already obtained furloughs to join their 
respective corps without loss of time. > 




1 he army will move on Sunday morning at six o’clock. 
All the horses and cattle to he brought in and put up to¬ 
morrow night. One hundred cattle to be left at this post, 
the troops to be supplied with four days’ provisions exclus¬ 
ively. The residue of the cattle to be driven on with the 
•army. 

The Court Martial whereof General Hand is President 
is dissolved and the trial of Col. Regnier and other officers 
under arrest is deferred until the army arrives at Easton. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Wyoming, October 9, 1779. 
.For Tomorrow, Brigidier General Maxwell. Field Officer, 
Col. Shrcves—Brigade Major, Ross. 

When the horses are collected the Quarter Master 
will make the following distribution of them: To Clinton’s, 
.Maxwell’s and Poor’s Brigades an equal number, to Pland’s 
half the number and to the artillery two-thirds of the 
number ascertained for General Hand. The wagons are 
to be distributed in the same proportion, except to the 
artillery who have already had their proportion. The 
■Quarter Master will call on Lieut. Col. Forrest for the 
wagons which he has been notified are to be delivered up 
for the use of the infantry. 

The Quarter Master will deliver a reasonable and 
proportionate number of horses to the staff. 

As the interests of America loudly calls for this army 
at Headquarters, the Commander-in-Chief requires the army 
to be in perfect readiness to move to-morrow morning at 
‘6 o’clock. 

The General being under the necessity to proceed to 
"Easton as speedily as possible, General Clinton will take 
•command of this army to-morrow morning and proceed 
with it to that place. 

A trusty officer and a small party of men from 
each Brigade are to be left at this post for the purpose of 
bringing on the convalescents and such baggage as cannot 
be conveyed with the army. Wagons will be sent from 
Easton for that purpose and these officers are requested to 
lose no time in forwarding the remaining sick and baggage. 

As the distribution of horses will take place this after¬ 
noon all officers and others who have public horses in their 
■possession are directed to turn them to the Quarter Master 


26 


immediately. The General expects a strict compliance with 
this order, being determined to* punish a breach of it in any 
instance. 

The following gentlemen are appointed Ensigns in the 
4th Pennsylvania Regiment and to take rank as follows, viz : 

Mr. John Pratt, from July 1, 1779. 

Mr. Henry Hanley, from July 2, 1779. 

Mr. John Coleman, from July 3, 1779. 

Mr. Andrew Henderson, from July 4, 1779. 

Mr. Nathaniel Smith, from July 5, 1779. 

ooo 

ADVERTISEMENT, 

Was stolen, last night, a pine chest, the property of 
Mr. McLaughlin, Assistant Commissary of Military stores, 
containing all his public papers and wearing apparel. One 
hundred and sixty dollars will be given as a reward to the 
person who will discover and apprehend the thief. 

Was lost between Tyoga and Wyoming, a silver spur, 
carved on the outside. Whoever will return the same 
shall receive twenty dollars. 

ooo 

Regimental Orders of October 9, 1779. 
Officer of the day tomorrow, Capt. Lieut. McCluer. 

In consequence of the scarcity of the horses, and but 
two wagons being allowed for carrying the baggage of 
each corps of artillery, the Commanding Officer strictly 
forbids any officer under the rank of captain to ride, and 
further directs that the officer of the day shall dismount 
every such officer who shall attempt a breach of this order. 

The wagons assigned to the artillery will be loaded 
with tents only. The non-commissioned officers and Mat- 
trosses to carry their own knapsacks, haversacks and blan¬ 
kets unless that horses can be provided for that purpose. 

The commanding officer flatters himself that the offic¬ 
ers and soldiers are well convinced of his being disposed to 
serve them at all times when circumstances will admit, and 
expects that on this occasion they will cheerfully comply 
with these orders. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, October 10, 1779. 
Brigader for the day tomorrow, General Field officer, 

Spencer. Brigade Major, Marshal. 


27 


Head-Quarters Great Swamp, Oct. 11, 1779. 
Field officer of the day, Col. Cilley. Brigade Major, Ross^ 

The corps of artillery with all its ammunition and bag¬ 
gage together with all wagons of the army, will move for 
Louis Hill immediately after the firing of the morning gun, 
and thence halt for the arrival of the troops. The pack 
horses will move in the usual order. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, October 12, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow, Lieut. Col. Reed. Brigade Major,. 

Marshall. ooo 

Head-Quarters, Sullivan’s Stores, October 13, 1779. 

Field officer for tomorrow, Lieut. Col. Reed—Brigade Major 

Ross. 

The troops to draw two days’ salt, and one day’s fresh 
provisions this morning. 

The General in the most positive terms directs that the 
troops burn no rails, or commit any species of waste upon 
the inhabitants, as we are now entering a country peopled' 
by our friends. 

He directs that no officer or soldier presume to march 
in front of the army to Easton without regular permission.. 

Every officer found straggling from his regiment majr 
depend upon being punished for unmilitary conduct and 
breach of orders. 

As the firing of musquets in and about the camp is totally 
unmilitary the General is determined to put a period thereto, 
for which purpose he directs that every delinquent receive 
50 lashes upon the spot. 

The General to beat to-morrow morning at 10 o’clock 
the assembly at half past ten and the march immediately to* 
commence. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, October 14th, 1779. 

If any soldier or baggage should be in the rear of the 
army to-morrow morning after beating the General the same 
to be reported at Headquarters. 

The same order of march to be observed to-morrow as 
to-day. The field officer of the day is directed to pay par¬ 
ticular attention thereto. 

The General reminds the army of the orders of yester¬ 
day, respecting the straggling as well of officers as soldiers 


28 


in front of the line of march. He requests a strict com¬ 
pliance with yesterday’s orders as he is determined to make 
a severe example of every delinquent. 

The troops to put their arms and clothes in the best pos¬ 
sible order can be, and the General to beat at half past six, 
assembly at seven, and the march to take place at the firing 
of a cannon at the park. 

ARTILLERY ORDERS. 

Officer of the day tomorrow—Captain Proctor. 

As to-morrow is the day assigned for going to Easton 
the commanding officer flatters himself that the soldiers un¬ 
der his immediate command still retain that spark of decent 
pride that they have ever yet been distinguished by as artill¬ 
erymen, and hopes that they will endeavor to appear in as 
clean and soldier-like manner as their clothes will admit of; 
and being fully convinced of their disposition to comply 
with this order he has not the least doubt of meeting with 
disappointment. 

The officer of the day will select a proportion of non¬ 
commissioned officers, bumbarders and gunners, etc., for 
four three-pounders, with thirteen rounds of blank cart¬ 
ridges to answer the salute of the town and to conduct the 
firing. 

The artillery to march in with laurel in their hats, 
ooo 

Head-Quarters, Easton, October 15, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow, Lieut. Col. Dearborn. Brigade 
Major, Ross. 

ooo - 

Head-Quarters, Easton, October 16, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow, Major Hollingshead. Brigade 
Major, Marshall. 

The troops to hold themselves in readiness to muster 
to-morrow morning at seven o’clock for which purpose they 
will put their arms and clothes in the best order this even¬ 
ing. 

General Clinton’s, Maxwell’s and Poor’s Brigades will 
each furnish a subaltern piquet to parade in front of the 
artillery park at retreat beating this evening. 

The same number of each of the brigades will parade 
at the same place to-morrow morning at troop beating. 


29 


Artillery Orders. 

Officer of the day, Capt. Lieut. Coleman. 

It is with pleasure the Commanding Officer informs 
the artillery that they were distinguished yesterday by their 
cleanly appearance from all the other troops by the inhabi¬ 
tants of this town and hopes that their good behavior will 
merit a continuance of the public applause. 

The officers to pay particular attention to the General 
Orders of this day for mustering. 

OOO 

After General Orders, October 16. 

The Commander-in-Chief congratulates this brave 
little army on their arrival at Easton and on their having 
completed the reduction of the Five Indian Nations with so 
much honor to themselves and so much satisfaction to him. 

He takes this opportunity to return his most sincere 
and cordial thanks for their very great exertions through¬ 
out the whole campaign. 

Justice obliges him to say that officers never deserved 
more credit and that soldiers never had a better claim to 
the applause of their countrymen. 

The troops will attend divine service at the church in 
this town to-morrow at eleven o’clock, where a discourse 
suitable to the occasion will be delivered by the Reverend 
Doctor Evans. 

Returns to be immediately made of the shoes wanting 
for the troops that they be supplied without delay. 

Major Fish is to act as Adjutant General in the absence 
of Col. Barber and is to be obeyed and respected accord¬ 
ingly. 

A General Court Martial of which General Poor will 
be President, to sit at the President’s Quarters at five 
o’clock this afternoon for the trial of Lieut. Col. Regnier, 
—one field officer and two Captains from each Brigade to 
attend as members. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Easton, October 17, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow, Major Scott—Brigade Major, Ross. 

The Commander-in-Chief has the pleasure to inform 
the army that the Honorable the Continental Congress was 
pleased to pass the following resolve on the 14 th instant 
respecting the Western expidition, to-wit: 


30 


In Congress, 14th October, 1779. 

Resolved that the thanks of Congress be given to his- 
excellency General Washington for directing and to Major 
General Sullivan and the brave officers and soldiers under 
his command for effectually executing an important ex¬ 
pedition against such of the Indian Nations as encouraged 
by the councils and conduct by the officers of his Britanic 
Majesty had perfidiously waged an unprovoked and cruel 
war against the United States, laid waste their defenceless, 
towns and with savage cruelty slaughtered the inhabitants 
thereof. 

Extract from the minutes. 


Charles Thompson, Secretary. 


The army will not march tomorrow. 

ooo 


Extract from General Orders: 

Head-Quarters, Morris’s House. October 2, 1779. 

The following are the uniforms that have been deter¬ 
mined for the troops of these states respectively as soon as 
the state of the public supplies will permit them being 
furnished accordingly, and in the meantime it is recom¬ 
mended to> the officers to accommodate their uniform to this 
standard that when the men come to be supplied there may 
be a proper uniformity. 



Virginia, j 

North Carolina, 1 Blue, faced with blue, button-holes edged 1 
South Carolina, V with narrow white lace or tape, buttons and 
Georgia, J lining white. 

Artillery and Artillery 1 Blue, faced with scarlet, scarlet lin- 
Artificers, / ing, yellow buttons, yellow bound hats, 

coats edged with narrow lace or tape, button-holes bound with 
the same. 


31 


Light Dragoons, 1, , w , hole with white > white 

) button-holes and lining. 

ooo 

Artillery Orders. 

Officer for the Park, tomorrow, Capt. Craige. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Easton, October 18, 1779. 
Eield officer for tomorrow-Brigade Major, Marshall. 

Sundry complaints have been made to the Commander- 
in-Chief that the troops make excursions in the country and 
rob the inhabitants of their property, he finds himself under 
the necessity of giving positive orders that no soldier be 
permitted to go more than half a mile from town without 
a written pass from the officer commanding the corps to 
which he belongs. The General laments exceedingly that 
troops who have deservedly acquired such reputation 
amongst their countrymen should suffer disgrace by the 
inconsiderate conduct of a few individuals and he positively 
declares that if these hints do not prove sufficient to prevent 
such enormities, he will prevent their straggling by forming 
a strong piquet around the whole encampment, even though 
half the men should be on duty the same time. 

Return to be made of the fifes and drum cords, drum¬ 
heads, sticks wanting in the several corps. 

All the public horses of the army excepting those that 
are attached to the public wagons to be delivered in to Capt. 
Hooper, Quarter Master General, at this post by six o’clock 
this evening. 

The regimental surgeons are directed to make 
immediate returns of all their sick to Doctor Hazen, General 
Surgeon of the flying hospital. 

ooo 

Regimental and Artillery Orders. 

Officer for the Park tomorrow—Capt Proctor. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Easton, October 19, 1779. 
Eield officer for tomorrow, Major Edwards, Brigade Major, 
Capt Sproat. 

The shoes to be distributed to the several Brigade 
Quarter Masters and to the Quarter Master of Artillery 
this afternoon in the following proportions. 



32 


General Clinton. 647 pairs. 

General Maxwell. 647 “ 

General Poor.667 “ 

General Hand. 318 “ 

Train of Artillery.,.121 “ 


2400 

000 

Regimental Orders. 

Officer of the day for tomorrow, Capt. Lieut. MeCluer. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, Easton, October 20, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow, Col. Cortlandt—Brigade Maj., Ross. 

ooo 

Regimental Orders. 

Officer for the day tomorrow, Capt. Lieut. Coleman. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, October 21, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow, Col. Shreves—Brigade Maj. Marshall. 

The Brigade Quarter Masters and the Quarter Master 
of artillery to call upon Col. Hooper for their quotas over¬ 
halls. 

ooo 

Regimental officer of the day, Capt. Craige. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, October 22, 1779. 

Field officer for tomorrow,-Brigade Major, Spratt. 

ooo 

Head-Quarters, October 23, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow, Col. Cilley—Brigade Major, Ross. 

The commissary to' deliver out one gallon of rum to 
each field officer and two quarts to> every other commis¬ 
sioned officer on the ground. 

As a number of the field and other officers who are to 
do duty on horseback are destitute of horses, the Quarter 
Master will deliver them horses to ride on to Headquarters 
with the army taking receipts for returning them to such 
places as he may think proper to direct. 









33 


Artillery Orders. 

Officer for the day tomorrow, Capt. Lieut. McCluer. 


ooo 

Head-Quarters, Easton, October 24, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow, Lieut. Col. Hubley—Brigade Ma¬ 
jor, Ross. 


ooo 


Head-Quarters, Easton, October 25, 1779. 
Field officer for tomorrow-Brigade Major- 

A General Court Martial of the line of which Brigadier 
General Poor was President is dissolved, and another is 
ordered to sit at Oppre’s tavern at ten o’clock this morning 
for the trial of all officers in arrest, and others that may 
be brought before them; Col. Shreve is appointed President. 
Mr. Pemberton, a deputy commissary of issues is requested 
to act as Judge Advocate to the court, an orderly sergeant 
from General Maxwell’s Brigade and one from General 
Hand’s to attend the Court Martial. 

At a General Court Martial whereof General Poor was 
President, held at Easton on the 19 instant, Lieut. Burk of 
the 11 th Pennsylvania Regiment was tried for not delivering 
out clothing to> the men, agreeable to Lieut. Col. Hubley’s 
orders; for abusing a soldier and taking from him a shirt 
after he knew Col. Hubley had ordered it to be taken from 
a soldier who 1 had three shirts and giving it to> the soldier 
said tO' be abused, the court finds him not guilty of the 
charge and acquits him with honor. The Commander-in- 
Chief releases him from his arrest and directs that he 
return to his duty. 

• At the same court, Lieut. Street of the nth Pennsyl¬ 
vania Regiment was tried for introducing Sergeant 
Beverly as a Lieutenant of the line, knowing him to be not 
an officer and ordering him to duty as such, and ordering 
him to sit on a Court Marital, and for receiving him into 
the mess associating with him as Lieutenant of the line, 
and for uttering the sentence of a Court Martial, by reading 
more punishment to the prisoner than was ordered by the 
court; the court finds him guilty of the charges and sentence 
him to be reprimanded in General Orders. 

The General releases him from his arrest and orders 
him to return to his duty. 




34 


Though from the whole tenor of the proceedings it 
•does not appear that Mr. Street had any cruel intention 
.but rather that his credulity in one case and imprudent zeal 
an the other carried him far 1 from that line of cautious 
regularity and exactness of conduct which every officer 
ought to observe, for which the court has justly sentenced 
;him— ; yet to a failing springing from so incorrupted a source, 
the General cannot think of anything severe upon the 
.subject and only wishes that his trial may make him more 
<cautious in future, and teach others not to> fall into the 
same error. 

The whole of the troops on this side will cross the ferry 
to-morrow morning. All the artillery, baggage and 
ammunition wagons to be carried over to-morrow. 

The Brigadier and officers commanding corps, will see 
that their troops are encamped on the other side in the most 
•convenient place. 

The army will be ready to march for Warwick as early 
;as Wednesday morning, marching from the left in the 
following order, to-wit: First, Poor’s Brigade; then the 
artillery, then Clinton, Maxwell and Hand. 

Application to be made to Col. Hooper for wagons 
to move the troops to-morrow afternoon. 

Doctor McCrea will see that such of the sick and con¬ 
valescents as cannot be moved with convenience are in 
preparation for crossing the river and will apply to Col. 
Hooper for a proper number of wagons to transfer them 
to Warwick. 

Directions for marching and encamping will be given 
out to-morrow. 

ooo 

Artillery Orders. « 

Officer for the day tomorrow, Capt. Craige. 

Officers commanding ordinance will immediately turn 
out drivers, and see that their guns are in order to move 
to-morrow agreeable to General Orders of this day. 

Head-Quarters, October 26, 1779. 

The corps of artillery are to cross the river this day 
with cannon, ammunition and baggage, the guns dismounted 
are to be as speedily repaired as possible and cross the river 
—the artillery camp to be a contiguous to the ferry as wood 
and water will permit. 


35 


One officer and ten men to remain in Easton this night 
to convey the dismantled cannon forward to the army to¬ 
morrow. 

The artillery to march by the right and by seniority of 
•companys, to-wit: 

Captain Wool, his two three-pounders. 

Captain Craige, one howitzer and six-ponnder. 

Captain Rice, one howitzer and six-pounder. 

Captain Proctor, two three-pounders. 

Captain Brice, two three.pounders. 

The Commander-in-Chief has now the pleasure to con¬ 
gratulate the army on the complete and full success of 
Major General Sullivan and the troops under his command 
against the Senecas and other tribes of the Six Nations as 
a just and necessary punishment for their wanton depre¬ 
dations, their unparalleled and innumerable cruelties, their 
vdeafness to all remonstrances. 

FINIS. 

























































































































































































































































































































'it ^ 















































































































- 































































' 

































Boulder, Marking Fort Sullivan, 
Erected by Tioga Chapter, D. A. R., 
October 3, 1902. 




























i 































EXTRACTS FROM JOURNALS 
OF SULLIVAN’S SOLDIERS RELATING TO TIOGA 
POINT AND BUILDING AND DESTROYING 
FORT SULLIVAN. 

s j* j* 

S * 

Col. Israel Shreve (August 1779) was ordered to march to the Sus¬ 
quehanna and join General Sullivan, who was ordered to chastise the 
Indians and tories who massacreed the inhabitants on the Susquehanna 
the year before. We arrived at Wyoming, now Wilkesbarre, in Sep¬ 
tember, then proceeded up the river to Chemung branch of the river 
where the town of Athens now is. 

At Wyoming we were joined by troops that came up the river from 
Northumberland, and in this neighborhood by troops which came down 
from the State of New York. 

While we waited here for the latter troops, our Brigade marched 
up the river Chemung, twelve miles, in the night to an Indian town by 
that name. We arrived at daylight. The Indians lay in ambush, and 
killed one of our men, (by my side, he touched me when he fell,) and 
wounded several others, one of whom died 

We knew of but one Indian killed. We burnt their town, ten or 
twelve houses, cut down several acres of good corn, and returned down 
the river, carrying corn, pumpkins, garden truck, and the dead and 
wounded men in several boats which we had taken up the river, and 
arrived at our encampment in the afternoon. 

After remaining here for a few days Col. Shreeve was ordered with 
a detachment to build a stockade Fort at a place about two or three 
miles up the two Rivers Susquehanna and Chemung where they passed 
each other within about one hundred yards. I (Capt. Shreve) was left 
with this detachment. 

The Fort was called Fort Sullivan. Nearly four square about 
ninety yards one way and a little under the other way. By digging a 
trench two and a half feet deep and placing upright logs in the trench 
about twelve feet high, leaving two or three gateways. 

After leaving the heavy baggage and women which belonged to tlm 
camp, General Sullivan marched up the Chemung river to the Indian 
Settlement, in the north west part of New York, called the Genessee 
Country, inhabited by several tribes of Indians and Tory whites, who 
were under the influence and hired by the British, to burn property and 
kill the Americans, men women and children, by offering a reward for 
their scalps. Our army killed some of them, and lost several men in 


38 


several skirmishes, burned their towns, destroyed their corn and other 
property. They could not bring tin Indians and Tories to a general 
engagement. The British had troops with the Indians. 

After destroying all they could find our Army returned to Fort 
Sullivan. And we left the fort and passed down the river to Wyoming 
the last of October 

The foregoing is copied from a letter of Capt John Shreeve, son 
of Col Israel Slireeve, under whose command he was when the inci¬ 
dents as related occurred, and participated in them. He wrote from 
near Salem, Ohio, in Nov. 1853, when the writer was in his ninety-sec¬ 
ond year. 

Wm. Bell, Mt. Holly, June 15, 1876. 
ooo 

Extract No, J. Lieut, Wm, Barton, of Maxwell's Brigade, 

August 11th. Marched at 7 a. m. for Tioga. The army at 
nine began to ford the Susquehannah, having first fired a few 
cannon in the wood on the other side fearing there might be 
some of the enemy to oppose us crossing the river; a little more 
than \yaist deep, very rapid, which made it difficult crossing, the 
force of the current carrying several down; happily none were 
drowned. Proceeded after landing about one and a half miles, 
when we came to Kihuga creek, which we forded, and encamped 
in the forks formed by the Susquehanna and Kihuga, on the 
ground where the town of Tioga formerly stood. Soil very rich, 
etc. 

12th. On fatigue, cutting timber to build block houses. 

September 25th. Remained at Fort Reed for those detach¬ 
ments before mentioned to have been sent out, to return. In 
the forenoon the army all discharged their muskets, with orders 
to parade at five in the afternoon, each man furnished 'with blank 
cartridge. According to orders the whole paraded in a line to 
fire a feu de joie, when thirteen round of cannon was fired. Then 
began a running fire of muskets from the right through the whole; 
this not being performed to the General’s liking, he ordered the 
whole to charge again; after this was done he ordered the whole 
to be put in readiness and not a man to fire until he should come 
opposite him. All being in readiness, he put his horse off at full 
speed and rode from right to left with whip and spur, men all 
firing according to orders, which made it very grand and caused 
the General to say it went like a hallelujah. After three cheers 
given for the Congress in consequence of their resolutions of the 
18th August, and then three for the United States, and thirdly 
for the King of Spain, our new ally, and thus the day ended with 
joy, the officers of each brigade furnished with one of the best 
bullocks there was, extra. 

Thursday, 30th. At 3 o’clock P. M. arrived at Fort Sullivan 
at Tioga, when we were saluted from the garrison by thirteen 
rounds of cannon. * * * The fort is a fine stockade, * * * 

block houses on the Susquehannah River, and one other on the 
Kihuga; within three hundred yards of each was an old carrying 
place about half a mile from the forks of the two rivers. 

OOO 

Extract No, 2. Lieut. Erkuries Beatty, with Gen. Clinton. 

August, Sunday, 22nd. Marched off this morning 7 o’clock, 
proceeded on crossed to midling large brooks. Arrived at Tyoga 
11 o’clock where we found Genl. Hand’s Brigade encamped one 


39 


Blook hnnLo h fh “ °} the Tyoga where th ey was building 4 
wlffplk P ° the / i roops was enca mi>ed on the point which 
RiVht G nf fi Poo 1 rs 1 and Maxwell’s Brigades, we encamped on the 
hv S iq the W ^° on our com mg in to Camp we were saluted 
T ? 6 Pieces of Cannon which was returned by our two little 

wfth o o n t ? 8 , Rl ^ er . we foimd Genl - Hand’s Brigade under arms 
/ith a Band of Musick which played Beautiful as we passed by 
them we encamped on a very pretty piece of ground and Spent the 
Remainder of the day in seeing our friends in th Different Regts. 
bke wise when we arrived here our Infantry was Disbanded and 
oidered to join their respective Regts., very heavy showers of 
Ram this afternoon. Marched seven miles to-day. 


Monday, 23rd: To-day we lay at Tyoga, Spent the day seeing 
our friends. To-day a Capt. of Genl. Hand’s Brigade was Shot 
by Accident dead. 


iiiesciay, 24th. Drew some Cloathing for the men went to¬ 
day to see an old Indian burying ground which lay just by our 
Camp there was about 100 Graves some of which our men had 
Dug up, they bury their dead very curious after this manner. 
They dig a hole the length of the person they are to bury & 
about 2 feet Deep, they lay him on his back in the grave with an 
old Blanket or blanket Coat round him and lay Bark over the 
Grave even with the Surface of the Earth so as to prevent the 
earth from touching the body, then they heap up the dirt on the 
top of the grave in a round heap which is from 4 to 6 feet high, 
but the graves is very old and a number of them, as this formerly 
was a very Capital town, but a very few years ago they Moved up 
the Tyoga to Shamong where they built that town & there is no 
houses here now but very pretty lands. 

September 30th. Marchd this morning 9 oClock halted within 
one Mile of Fort Sullivan on the mouth of Tyoga and sent for 
our Musick & Coulours, likewise found the men in a proper line 
of March then march’d on with Musick playing and Colours flying 
and encamp’d on the same ground as we did before. When our 
troops passed the Fort - the Garrison was paraded and saluted 
us with 13 Pieces of Cannon regularly fired, afterward the same 
number was return’d by us, then three Cheers from the Garrison. 
The officers Regt. had a Dinner prepared for them in the garri¬ 
son where they Immediately repaired and Dined and took a hearty 
Drink of Grog and went to sleep—Since we left this place Col. 
Shreve who commanded had a very strong picket fort made here 
surrounded with very good Abattees and the 4 Block houses for 
the four Bestions which Comanded each River and all the men 
was encamped in the Garrison—Just been from Tyoga Thirty-five 
Days and from Tyoga. 136 Miles 

Sunday October 3rd. Orders came to-day for to have all the 
Stores loaded in boats and ready to march to-morrow morning 
with the Army, at six oClock The Hospital and sick to go down 
the river this afternoon, this Day a large fatigue Party was turned 
out to Destroy the fort., which they did effectually by pulling up 
the pickets and casting them in the river and burning the Abat¬ 
tees 


oo<> 

Extract No. 3. Dr. Ja bcz Campfield, Surgeon. 

August 11. The army arrived at Tioga, This day (3 miles) 
At 7 o’clock this morning the army marched and crossed the Sus- 
quehannah about a mile above our last camp—the river wid and 
rapid, and so deep as to come to the top of my boots on horseback* 


40 


after crossing we passed a swamp, a small distance through, and 
then entered a beautiful plain. This plain is called Tioga, from 
the middle of which we crossed over the Tioga branch, on to a 
point of land, which is made by a junction of the Tioga with the 
Susquehannah; on this point the army incamped, with our rear 
extending along the Susquehannah. About a mile further up the 
two rivers aproach each other within a little more than 100 yards, 
and, is the place which we expect will be fortified, to cover our 
boats until we return. 

It is remarkable that we have come into this country, by a 
long and difficult march, where there are but a few miles, in which 
a small party of our enemy could not, with ease, have much 
impeded our progress, and are now within twelve miles of one of 
their considerable settlements, & as yet have never seen or heard 
anything of them, that we could, with certainty depend upon. 

I very heartily wish these rusticks may be reduced to reason, 
by the aproach of this army, without their suffering the extreems 
of war; there is something so cruel, in destroying the habitations 
of any people, (however mean they may be, being their all) that 
I might say the prospect hurts my feelings. 

August 22. During the stay of the army at Tioga, 4 block 
houses were built for the defense of the boats, and garrisoned 
by the invalids under command of Col. Shrieve and the boat men. 
Here we left all unecessary baggage, and all the women and child¬ 
ren. The General left here 2 6-pounders. 

August 26th, 1779. Thursday—The whole army marched by 
the garrison of Tioga and incamped about three or four miles 
forward. 

August 27th, 1779. The army marched about six miles and 
passed a difficult defile—broke two wagons, overset a traveling 
forge and one of the pieces. 

This shows the difficulty we had to surmount in carrying 
our cannon forward. Our baggage arrived at 12 O’clock at night, 
here we found much green corn & beans. 

August 28th, The army marched to Shemung, (12 miles from 
Tioga) In this march Maxwell’s brigade, the artillery and pack 
horses forded the Tioga twice to escape a difficult defile, while 
Genls Clinton, Poor & Hand with their brigades passed over the 
mountains. The Genl this day received information that a body 
of men were fortifying a pass about 6 miles in front. 

Sunday August 29, 1779.—The army advanced in its common 
order of march, until about the middle of the day when the ad¬ 
vance received the fire from the enemy, whom they found posted 
advantageously behind a brestwork, extending about 2 or 300 
yards, built on a rising ground, having a brook and very thick 
brush in front at the distance of small musquet shot—they were 
about 1000 strong, mostly Indians, under Brandt, Butler, however, 
commanded having with him 3 or 400 rangers and Tories. 

The Riflemen amused them for some time with a scattering 
fire, while Genl’ Clinton & Poor could gain their left flank, and 
the artillery be properly posted. When the cannon began to play 
upon them, they ran immediately, in great disorder; they, then 
attempted to gain a mountain on the right of the river, which they 
effected, but Genl Poor immediately dislodged them & their rout 
became general. 

Two prisoners were taken, a Tory & a Negro; 17 men were 
kuled on the spot, who our people found, one of them an Indian 


41 


of distinction their number wounded we dont know, they m ust 
have been considerable. We had only 3 men killed and 30 
wounded, among whom were a Major, Captain & Sub’n., all of the 
Hampshire troops. 

At evening the whole army arrived and incamped in New 
Town, the inhabitants of which had deserted it two days before. 

Here we found great quantities of corn, beans, pumpkins, &c. 

On our right up the brook, where the action was, at some 
distance, were found a cluster of new houses covered with split 
stuff, supposed to have been built for a magazine as they had not 
been inhabited. From the manner of building the houses here, 
I think the Tories must have built them, and the corn was planted 
after the manner of the white people. 

ooo 

Extract No. 4. Lieut. Col. Henry Dearborn. 

August 11th. The army forded the rivers where the water 
was so deep and rapid that we found great difficulty in fording 
After fording the river proceeded 3 miles & crossing the west 
branch of the river called the Tioga branch ariv’d at Tioga Set- 
uate on the point where the west branch forms a junction with the 
Susquehannah On both sides of the Tioga branch are very large 
bodies, of clear Intervale cover’d with high grass where has been 
a large Indian settlement and where Queen Hester (Queen of the 
Six Nations) resided until last autumn Col Hartley with a party 
* of troops burn’d her palace Genl Sullivan has been fortunate 
enough to reach this place with his army without any considera¬ 
ble accident happening. 

12th. We are beginning to erect works for the security of 
the troops & Stores to be left at this place The Genl received in¬ 
telligence this afternoon by a Small party that had been sent to 
make discoveries that the Enimy appear to be in great confusion 
and about moving from Chemong an Indian town 12 miles up the 
Tiogea branch in consequence of which the whole army fit f6r 
duty march’d at 8 o clock P. M. in order to surprise the Enimy 
at Chemong On our march we passed several very difficult de¬ 
files and as the night was very dark and the path but little us’d 
we found great difficulty in proceeding Genl Hand with his 
brigade was to go round and fall into the road that leads up the 
river from the town while Genl Poor mov’d directly to the town 
and made the attack if he found the enimy in possession of the 
town, at day break we arriv’d at the town but found it deserted 
only two or three Indians were seen running from the town The 
Town consisted of about 30 houses situate on the bank of the 
Tiogea Their houses were built with split and hew’d timber 
■cover’d with bark There were 2 large buildings which were said 
to be publick houses There was very little left in the houses 
except baskets buckets & skins the houses had no chimney or 
fiooers & ware very dirty and smookey, about sunrise all the 
“buildings ware set on fire On examination we found that a 
party of the enimy incamp’d about 60 rods from the town last 
night and from all appeerence the enemy left the town last even¬ 
ing Genl Hand with his brigade pursu’d the enimy about 2 
miles and was fired on by a party of Indians from the top of the 
hill who run off as soon as the fire was return’d Genl Hand had 
six men killed and seven wounded three of the latter were officers. 
The enimy was pursu’d by our troops but not overtaken We 
found a number of very large fields of corn in the whole about 
40 acmes about fit to roast which we cut down and destroyed in 


42 


the doing which a party of our men ware fir’d on by a party of 
Tories & Indians across the river who killed one man & wounded. 

4 After compleeting the destruction of the corn Town &c we 
returned to Tiogea where we arrived at dark very much fategue’d 
having marched not less than 30 miles & the weather very warm 
Chemong lays about N West from Tiogea 

23rd. We are preparing to march with all possible expedi¬ 
tion; about 5 oclock this afternoon a very shocking accident hap¬ 
pened in our Brigade A Soldier very accidentally discharg’d a 
musket charged with a ball and several buckshot 3 of which un¬ 
fortunately struck Capt Kimbal of Col Cilley’s regt who was 
standing at some distance in a tent with several other officers in 
such a manner that he expired within 10 or 15 minutes as univers- 
elly lamented as he was esteem’d by all who knew him One of 
the shot wounded a soldier in the leg who was setting at- some 
distance from the tent Capt Kimbal was in 

24th The remains of the unfortunate Capt Kimbal was In- 
ter’d at 11 Oclock A M with the honors of war attended by Genl 
Poor and almost all the Officers of the Brigade with Col Proctors 
Band of Musick The army is very busy in prepareing to march 
25th We found great difficulty in getting ready to moove for 
want of a sufficient number of horses to carry our provisions 
Ammunitions Stores &c, however we are to morrow without fail 
with 27 days flower and live beef Our whole force that will 
march from here is about 5000 men Officers included with nine " 
pieces of Artillery Three of the Anyda Warriers arriv’d in camp 
this afternoon Who are going on with us as guides two runners 
ariv’d from Col Broadhead at Fort Pitt informing us that Col 
Broadhead is on his way with about 800 men against the western 
Indians. 

26th Our army marched at 12 oclock in the order laid down 
in the plan of order of March & Battle A garrison of about 300 
men is left at this place under the command of Col. Shreeve The 
army proceeded about 4 miles and incamp’d Mr. Lodge a gentle¬ 
man who survey’d and Measur’d the rode from Easton to this 
place goes on in order to take an actual survay of the country^ 
who measures the rode as we go on 

September 30th. ariv’d at Tiogea where we were Saluted with' 
13 Cannon which we answered with the same number Col. Shreeve 
who commanded the garrison made an entertainment for the 
Genl & Field Officers; this afternoon was spent in festevity and ! 
mirth, Joy appear’d in every countinence We now have finished 
our campaign and gloriously too 

October 1st. We are begining to prepare to march to Wyom¬ 
ing 

2nd Genl Sullivan made an entertainment for all the Genl 
& Field officers to day this evening we had an Indian war dance 
at HeadQuarters The Onyda Sachem was Master of cerimonies 

ooo 

Extract No. 5. Dr. Ebenezer Elmer, Surgeon. 

August 11th. Crossed the river and sending our Regt. & 2nd 
N. York do. to cover the crossing of the army they all got safe 
over— We marched up to Tioga Branch forded that & encamped 
a little above on the main branch called the North Branch—Queen: 
Esthers Palace stood on the lower side of the Tioga Branch,, 
where is a large plain similar in appearance to that we came 
from on the other side of the river—Here I inquired of the Sur- 


43 


ve y°i ^ * oun d that the distance from Wyoming to be 80 miles 
consequently 145 miles from the Meridian Course N. N W by W—- 
Our camp is on a pine ridge between the main & Tioga Branch 
but near the former. In the flat below near the forks & on the 
other branch is excellent grass, Some English but mostly wild 
Opposite on the other side of each branch is considerable of a 
mountain overlooking the plains. The buildings here were mostly 
desti oyed by Colo. Hartly last fall and the place has been but 
little frequented by the Indians since, only being crossed on 
their tours down the country. Two old brush encampments were 
found below and burned. Probably they were made by the party 
which was down at Wyoming last April. The horrors of a wild¬ 
erness with the beauties of a fertile nature are blended in our 
prospects at this place. 

OOO 

Extract No. 6. Serg’t Major George Grant, 3d Jersey Regiment. 

August 11th. This morning marched for Teago distant 4 
miles— the country level and fine land. Within half a mile of 
Teaoga we crossed the Susquehannah, hanging our cartouch boxes 
on our bayonets, and wading the river up to our arm-pits. Previous 
to the troops crossing Col Proctor landed some of his artillery on the 
west sicfe of the river, and fired a few shots into the woods on 
the east side in order to annoy the enemy if any shold be there. 
The army then proceeded to cross and landed on a beautiful 
meadow— halted for a quarter of an hour, then across the Teaoga 
river and encamped. Capt. Cummings of the 2nd Jersey Regiment 
was despatched towards Chemung with a small party to recco- 
noitre the enemy, who we were informed were strong at this 
point. The above party returned, with intelligence of the enemy 
abandoning Chemung in a very great confusion. 

15th. A corporal and four men being sent to collect cattle, 
on their return was fired upon by a party of the Savages, who 
killeu and scalped one, wounded another. Though all possible 
means were used to come up with them, yet they made their 
escape. A party from each Brigade was ordered to build Block 
Houses on a Peninsula of the Teaoga and Susquehanna. 

OOO 

Extract No. 7. Lieut. John L. Hardenbergh, 2d N. Y. Regiment. 

Wednesday Aug. 11th. At 6 o’clock in the morning struck 
ten.., marcheu at 7 o’clock for Tyuga. Our regiment and the 2nd 
New Jersey regiment was ordered to cross the River at our en¬ 
campment and proceed up the River on the opposite side, to take 
possession of the ground at Tyuga to cover the fording place for 
the army an~. horses to cross the River, arrived at Tyuga about 
11 o’clock in the morning. At night Gen. Sullivan sent off a 
small scout to discover Shemung (of one Captain and seven men) 
which lay about twelve miles up the Tyuga branch. 

Aug. 12. The scout returned with news that the enemy seemed 
to be in great confusion and seemed to be moving off. The Gen’l 
left a guard at Tiyuga sufficient to guard the camp and marched 
with the rest of the army under cover of the night for Shemung, 
marched all night, the weather very dark, and nothing but an 
Indian path through the wood made it difficult. 

Friday Aug. 13th. About six o’clock in the morning we arrived 
at Shemung and found the enemy had left town. On our approach 
we burnt the town, destroyed the corn, &c., and returned to Tiyoga. 
A small party of the Indians who had concealed themselves in 


44 


the wood, fired on a small party of Gen’ll Hand’s Brigade, killed 
six men and wounded two without loss on their side. A party of 
Gen’l Poor’s Brigade was destroying corn, were fired upon by the 
enemy, killed one and wounded one. 

Saturday, Aug. 14th. Laid at Tiyuga waiting for the arrival 
of Gen’l Clinton’s Brigade, who came down the Susquehanna from 
the Mohawk River. A large detachment from the army was or¬ 
dered up to join him. The remainder of the army were employed 
in building a garrison at Tiyuga. On the 22nd day of Aug’t we 
were joined by Gen’l Clinton’s Brigade. 

ooo 

Extract No. 8. Thomas Grant, Surveyor. 

August 9th. Lay by this day till 10 o’clock waiting for the 
Main body to Com up. Marchd half past 10. Encamped this 
Eavening at 5 o’clock P. M. in the upper Shekenunk F'latts, a 
Delightful even Bottom Containing about One Hundred Acres of 
very fine meadow land, abounding with very fine Grass. The 
Road we passed this day much the same as Yesterday, except 
crossing one very High Mountain known by the name of Break¬ 
neck Hill. The decent very Steep and Dangerous. Crossing this 
hill we had three Bullocks Killd. at the foot of which we crossed 
a small run. Shortly after passed a large Indien Camp. The 
Distence the Infintry This day 11 Miles, the Genl Course this day 
N. N. W. Saw no Enemy, but fresh tracks. 

August 10th, 1779. Reany Weather ys morning and great part 
of last night. The Army Lay by this day in order to draw pro¬ 
visions. A fire was seen last Night on a Mountain on the opposid 
side of the River supposed to be maid by Indiens. This day a 
party of 500 Men with a sufficiency of Offasirs Reconitered the 
country as far as oppasite the mouth of Tioga. Major Hoops with 
four Men swam over the River and found a Milks Cow on the 
flats, supposed to be lost by Indiens who had fled at our approach. 

August 11th. This Morning the Genl Beat at 6 O’clock. The 
hole army marched Near Sevin. Marched this day to Tioga, an 
Indien Town, or Rather the place where an Indien Town formerly 
stood, In the forks of the River Susquehanah and Cayuga, where 
the main army encamped in a Deliteful Extensive Bottom, abound¬ 
ing with Excellent Grass. The Infantry Encamped 1 % miles in 
frunt in a narrow Neck of Land in width about 20 pole, a place 
where the Savages used to Carry their Canews From one river to 
the oather, known by the name of the Carrying place about two 
miles below the Forks. The whole army forded the River Sus¬ 
quehanna’, the manner in which it was performed was by forming 
Plotoons, and each man grasping his fellows supported Each 
Oather. Genl. Hand who commanded the Infantry quit his horse 
and waded with cheerfulness. The water was rapid and took them 
to the middle, notwithstanding the whole army crossed in the 
space of half an hour without the I oss of Either Man or horse, 
or any baggage. The sight was beautiful and pleasing, but must 
have been very Tarifying to the Enemy who, its very probible saw 
us from Neighboring hills which overlook the" water. We like¬ 
wise crossed the Tioga or Cayuga much in the same manner as 
before, but: much Shallower and not more than half as wide. On 
the south side Cayuga River, near the mouth, in the place where 
Queen Esther’s Castle stood. Rainy Weather Great part of this 
afternoon. Saw no Enemy; the Gerl Course this day was due 
North; the distance from Wyoming to Tioga old Town 80 mils, 
actual measure. 


August 12th. Fair weather but very warm. Last Eavening 
a small scout was sent to Chimung to reconiter The Enimy. They 
Returned this afternoon, with Infirmation that the Enemy wase 
in Possession of that place. In Consequence of which Genl Sulli¬ 
van ordered the trupes surved with a gill of Liquor pr man, at 
about 8 o’clock this Evening The Trupers Mooved of in a very 
Silent manner. Genl Hand’s Light Infintry In front as usual, all 
except the guard That was left for the safety of the Camp. We 
Marched all this Night passes through very Difficult Narrow De¬ 
files. 

August 15th. Fair weather and warm. This day about 4 
o’clock P. M. a fue men who ware looking Horses on the opposid 
side of Cayuga River, was fired on by the Indiens who kild one, 
a pack horse driver From Wyoming, and wounded one oather 
who maid his askape; the slain they scalped and gave the war 
whoop; they likewise shott a bullock which our people applyd to 
their own use, as the Beef Was Good. 

August 17th. Fair weather this day and Great preparations for 
Securing our stores and Gitting in Readiness for marching as 
soon as Possable when Genl Clintons Army arrives. This after¬ 
noon about five o’clock a fue men who were hunting their offasirs 
Horses about one mile in frunt of the advanced picquet, was fird 
on by Indieiis who shott one man through the Boady with three 
Balls, afterwards speered, tomyhawkd and skalped, him, Likewise 
shott an oather through the Arm, the Man Returned the fire and 
maid his escape. 

ooo 

Extract No. 9. Lieut. Col. Adam Hubley. 

Wednesday, August 11th. Agreeable to orders the army 
moved this morning at 8 o’clock, A. M., in the usual order. Light 
corps moved half an hour before the main army, and took post on 
the banks of the river near the fording place. On the arrival 
of the main army and boats, Col. Forest drew up his army at the 
fording place, and fixed several six pounders on the opposite shore 
in order to scour the woods and thickets, and prevent any ambus¬ 
cade from taking place. In the meantime the light corps marched 
by platoons, linked together on account of the rapidity of the 
water, and forded the same and effected a landing about 9 o’clock; 
they immediately advanced about one hundred yards from the 
river, and formed in line of battle, in order to cover the landing 
*of the main army, which was safely effected about 10 o’clock A. M., 
after which came on pack horses, cattle, &c., followed by a regi¬ 
ment which covered the rear guard. About half past ten o’clock 
the whole moved in following order. 

ORDER OF MARCH UP TIOGA FLATS. 

Previous to our arrival on the flats we had to pass about one 
and a half mile through a dark, difficult swamp, which was covered 
with weeds and considerable underwood, interspersed with large 
timber, chiefly buttonwood. We then entered the flats near the 
place where Queen Esther’s palace stood, and was destroyed by 
Col. Hartley’s detachment last fall. The grass is remarkably 
thick and high.. We continued along the same for about one 
mile, and arrived at the entrance of Tioga branch into Susque¬ 
hanna about 1 o’clock; we crossed the same and landed on a penin¬ 
sula of land which extends towards Chemung and is bounded on 
the east by Susquehanna, and on the west by Tioga branch, and 
.continued up the same for about two miles and a half and en- 


46 


camped. This peninsula is composed of excellent meadow and 
upland; grass is plenty and timber of all kinds, and soil is gener¬ 
ally good; distance of march this day, three miles. Since our 
arrival a scout of eight men was ordered up to reconnoitre Che¬ 
mung, and endeavor to make discoveries of the number of savages 
and their situation, if possible. 

Thursday, August 12th. Tioga Plain. This being a plain cal¬ 
culated to cover the western army during the expedition to the 
northern part of it, a garrison for that purpose is to remain until 
our return. Sundry works for the security of the same are now 
erecting about two and a half miles distant from where Tioga 
branch empties into the Susquehanna, and where the two rivers 
are about 100 yards distance from each other; those works to 
extend from river to river. 

August 13th. Our loss on this occasion, (skirmish at Che¬ 
mung) which totally (excepting two) fell on my regiment, was as 
follows, viz; two captains, one adjutant, one guide, and eight pri¬ 
vates wounded, and one sergeant, one drummer, and four privates 
killed. Officers’ names: Captain Walker, (slight wound) Captain 
Carberry, and Adj. Huston. (I fear mortal.) 

The whole business being completed we returned to the ruins 
of the village, halted some little time and received orders to return 
to Tioga Plain, at which place we arrived at 8 o’clock considerably 
fatigued. Less the savages should discover our loss, after leaving 
the place, I had the dead bodies of my regiment carried along, 
fixed on horses, and brought to this place for interment. 

Saturday, August 14th. This morning 10 o’clock, A. M., had 
the bodies of those brave veterans, who so nobly distinguished 
tnemselves, and bravely fell in the action of yesterday, interred 
with military honors, (firing excepted.) Parson Rogers delivered 
a small discourse on the occasion. 

Thursday, 24th. This day employed hands to make bags from 
tents for the purpose of carrying flour; hands employed all day 
and night in this business. 

Agreeable to orders a signal gun was fired for the whole army 
to strike tents, 5 o’clock, P. M., and marched some distance in order 
to form the line of march. Seven o’clock, P. M., another signal 
gun was fired for the army to encamp in proper order, and to be 
in readiness for an immediate march. Col. Butler’s regiment, with 
Major Parr’s riflemen, joined light corps, and encamped with them 
this day, 7 o’clock. P. M. 

Col. Shrieve took command of Fort Sullivan this day agreeable 
to orders. Flying hospital and stores were moved this day to the 
garrison. 

Thursday, Sept. 30th. This morning about 8 o’clock the army 
moved. About two o’clock they arrived at Tioga Plains, near 
Fort Sullivan, where the whole formed in regular line of march 
and moved into the garrison in greatest order, when we were 
received with military honours, the garrison turning out with 
presented arms, and a salute of thirteen rounds from their artil¬ 
lery, which complement was returned them from the park of 
artillery from the army. 

Colonel Shrieve, governor of the garrison, had an elegant din¬ 
ner provided for the general and field officers of the army. We 
regaled ourselves, and great joy and good humour was visible in 
every countenance. Colonel Proctor’s band, and drums and fifes 
played in concert the whole time. 

Saturday, Oct. 2nd. This day the commander-in-chief made an 


47 


elegant entertainment, and invited all the general and field officers 
to dine with him. 

In the evening, to conclude the mirth of the day, we had an 
Indian dance. The officers who joined in it putting on vizors (alias 
Monetas) The dance was conducted and led off by a young 
Sachem of the Oneida tribe, who was next followed by several 
other Indians, then the whole led off, and after the Indian custom, 
danced to the music, which was a rattle, a knife and a pipe, 
which the Sachem continued clashing together and singing Indian 
the whole time. At the end of each, the Indian whoop was set 
•up by the whole. 

Sunday, Oct. 3rd. Agreeable to the orders of yesterday, the 
garrison of Fort Sullivan this day joined their respective corps, 
and fort was demolished. The stores and other baggage with the 
park of artillery were put on board the boats, ahd every other 
matter put in perfect readiness to move with the army, on their 
route to Wyoming, to-morrow morning at 6 o’clock. 

REFLECTION AT CLOSE OF EXPEDITION. 

Thus, by the perseverance, good conduct, and determined 
resolution of our commander-in-chief, with the assistance of his 
council, and the full determination of his troops to execute, have 
we fully accomplished the great end and intentions of this im¬ 
portant expedition; and I flatter myself we fully surpassed the 
most sanguine expectations of those whose eyes were more immed¬ 
iately looking to us for success. 

The glorious achievements we have exhibited in extending 
our conquests so far, and at the same render them so complete, will 
make no inconsiderable balance even in the present politics of 
America. Its future good consequences I leave to the elo¬ 
quence of time to declare, which will, in ages hence, celebrate the 
memory of those brave sons who nobly risked their lives, dis¬ 
daining every fatigue and hardship, to complete a conquest, the 
real good effects and advantages of which posterity will particu¬ 
larly enjoy. 

Whilst I revere the merit and virtue of the army, I am sorry 
I am under the necessity of mentioning that there was an un¬ 
paralleled and unpardonable neglect, (and which ought not to pass 
with impunity) in those whose business it was to supply them with 
a sufficient quantity of necessaries to carry them through the 
expedition, instead of which not more than twenty-two days flour, 
and sixteen days meat was on hand when it commenced. And, 
although the army possessed a degree of virtue, perhaps unpar- 
alled in the annals of history, in undertaking an expedition on half 
allowance, which was in every instance hazardous and imperious, 
yet, had we not been favored with the smiles of Providence, and a 
continuance of good weather, the half allowance itself would not 
have enabled us to perform what, from that circumstance we have. 

ooo 

Extract No. 10. Capt. Daniel Livermore, 3d New Hampshire Regiment. 

August 11th. This morning the troops march up the river 
1 mile and there ford the branch, and march up on the south 
side of the river; and in marching about 2 miles come to where 
Queenchester palace was destroyed. Here we crossed the south 
branch of the river, into the old Indian town called Tiega, which 
lies in the arms of the two rivers. Their wigwams were all de- 
■stroved by themselves about a year ago, when they left the place. 


48 


Monday, August the 23rd. This day a very melancholy acci¬ 
dent happened. A soldier in snapping his gun, insensible of its 
being loaded, it went off and shot Capt. Benjamin Kimbal through 
the heart. The same shot went through two more tents, where 
were a number of soldiers, with no further hurt than slightly 
wounding a man in the leg. 

Tuesday, August 24th. This morning the remains of Capt. 
Kimbal were interred with the honors of war. The troops are 
paraded and all the baggage loaded. Everything is made ready 
for the excursion into the Indian country. At sunset all unloaded, 
and tents pitched on the old ground. The morning gun will be 
the signal for marching to-morrow morning. 

ooo 

Extract No. II. Lieut. Chas. Nukerck, 2d New York Regiment. 

August 9. Incamped on Sheshecununck Flats about three 
fourths of a Mile wide and Two Miles in Length and very Level— 
Lying on Bank of the River which groes very small at this place 
Much good land about this place. 

Do. 10th. Remained at Sheshecunung Flats. 

Do. 11th. Decamped early in the Morning Forded the Sus- 
quehannah River 3 Miles below Tioga, pass’d over Esters Plains 
Forded the Tioga Branch and Incamped at Tioga in the Forks of 
the River 

Do. 25. Remained at Tioga, in the meanwhile Built a Fort 
about 1 Mile and a Quarter above the Fort between the Rivers, 
which is not more than a stones throw apart. 

Do. 30th. Decamped this Morning 8 oclock. Arrived at Fort 
Sullivan at one oclock. Saluted from the Fort by 13 Cannon which 
Number was Returned from our Artillerey after which we passed 
the fort and Incamped on our Old Groundd in the Fork of the 
Rivers— 

October 1st, 2nd, 3rd. Remained at Tioga—3. Demolished 
Fort Sullivan. 

000 

Extract No. 12. Major James Norris, 3d New Hampshire Regiment. 

August 11. The Army reed orders to march to Tioga, about 
two Miles from Seshekonunck plain the troop forded the river 
where the stream was rapid and pretty deep, notwithstanding the 
men all came safe over except one who was carried down the Cur¬ 
rent. a considerable distance and saved by Lieut. Col. Barber, Adjt. 
Genl at the hazzard of his own life— The Cattle and pack Horses 
were as fortunate at the Troops— After advancing about one 
mile through a rich bottom covered with strong and stately timber 
which shut out the Sun, & shed a cool agreeable twilight; we un¬ 
expectedly were introduced into a Plain as large as that of Seshe- 
okonunck, call’d Queen Easter’s Plantation—it was on this plain 
near the bank of the Susquehanna that Easter, Queen of the 
Seneca Tribe, dwelt in Retirement and Sullen majesty, detached 
from all the Subjects of her Nation—The ruins of her Palace are 
still to be seen; surrounded with fruit Trees of various kinds—at 
the east end of the plain, the Tioga River forms a junction with 
the Susquehanna—At this place the Army forded & encamped about 
half a mile above it on the Susquehanna—We now find ourselves 
happily arrived at Tioga, with our Army and Fleet, our Troops 
generally in health and spirits and fewer accidents happening on 
the march than could be expected in the same distance, thro a 


49 


% 


Mountainous, wild uncultivated Country— It appears by the Num¬ 
ber of hides lying on the ground that the Indians have lately had an 
encampment at this place By the place of burial seen here, one 
would be led to think this was once an Indian Town, but there 
are no Vestiges of Hutts or Wiggwoms— Whether through prin¬ 
ciple of Avarice or curiosity, our Soldiers dug up several of their 
graves and found a good many laughable relicts, as a pipe Towa- 
hawk, & Beads &c— 

12th. The Genl gave orders for a fort and four Block houses 
to be built at this place for the Security of the Fleet and Stores 
which are to be left here under a pretty strong Garrison, after 
the Army moves into the Indian Country—and this movement will 
take place as soon as Genl Clinton, who is coming down the Sus¬ 
quehanna joins us with his Brigade. 

OOO 

Extract No, 13. Sergeant Thomas Roberts, 5th New Jersey Regiment. 

August 11th. Struck our tents and Marched 2 Mils then Forded 
the River of Suskahannah to the West Side of the River Marched 
3 mils and then Fordded the West branch Boath of theas Rivers 
Was Werey Diffikil Several men wold bin brounded if the horsmen 
had not helped them. Barber had like to Bin drounded and his 
hors By riding after A man Down the Falls the Water about to 
our arms and the Streem as Strong as at A Milltail But With a 
Grat Deal of Trobel Wee Crossed them Without much Lose Exsipt 
some Knapsak that the men lost after Crossing the River and the 
Branch Wee incamped at a plase called Tioga Wich is five miles 
from Meshokin this plase has bin settled by the Indians But 
Destroyed. Round Whear thear town was tha had Dug holes 
Four Foot Deep and planted them fool of hasel Bushis So that 
Wee cold not preecive them from the other Groung theas holes was 
Considerabel thick, in the afternoon Capt Cummins was sent out 
to Reconnite the way to Shemoung, Returned. 

OOO 

Extract No. 14. Rev. William Rogers, D. D., Chaplain in Hand's Brigade. 

Wednesday August 11th. The light troops marched from Upper 
Shescucunk at half past seven, the main body at eight o’clock A. M. 
Proceeding about one mile and a half we arrived at a fording place 
on the Susquehanna, unknown to any of our guides, but found out 
on the preceding day by the general officers. The troops pursuant 
to orders, taking off their overalls and tying them about their necks, 
crossed in platoons under cover of the fleet, each soldier grasping 
a hand of his comrade next to him for support. The current being- 
strong and the water for a considerable distance coming up to the 
middle of the men, some considerable difficulties were encountered, 
but notwithstanding every impediment the whole body got over 
without suffering any peculiar disadvantage. General Hand in 
order to animate his brigade, dismounted and marched through on 
foot at the head of his soldiers. Such an army crossing the river 
with so much regularity at a place so rapid and in width three 
hundred and thirty yards, affords the spectator a pleasing sight, 
and must have struck our enemies with awe. I must doubt whether 
the army of Alexander the Great encountered as many difficulties 
with as much good humor as ours has evinced. The river being 
forded we entered upon what is properly called the Indian country, 
or that part of the wilderness claimed by the Six Nations, the 
boundary on the west is the Tawandee Creek, emptying into the 
Susquehannah, about three miles above Weesauking. The army 


50 


being formed as usual we proceeded some times in single file, and 
then in double, through a thicket till we entered those beautiful 
plains where the Tioga branch unites itself with the main river. 
On this level spot stood Queen Esther’s palace, burned by Colonel 
Hartley last Fall. Over those plains the army marched towards 
the mouth of the Tioga, in order of battle, the light troops being 
joined by two three-pounders from the regiment of artillery. The 
view of this was grand beyond description, as the land for a great 
..circuit was level and the grass high and green. Drums were 
beating, fifes playing, colors flying. Getting to the mouth of the 
Tioga, we found it in width one hundred and forty-two yards, and 
tue water much deeper than had been imagined. Verdant plains 
in our rear, the flowing Susquehannah on our right. Ourselves in 
the Tioga or Cayuga stream, with a fine neck of land in our front 
and mountains surrounding the whole, afforded pleasant reflections 
though separated from friends and in an enemy’s country. Surely 
a soil like this is worth contending for. Possessing ourselves of 
the north side of the Tioga, and passing through a swampy piece 
of ground we entered upon other plains, pleasing to the eye, though 
not so grand as those on the south. Here the main body incamped; 
the light troops proceeded farther on, one column on the banks of 
the busquehannah, and another on those of the Tioga banks. Hav¬ 
ing advanced a mile and better, our tents wehe pitched from river 
to river, judged to be two hundred yards. Just below our encamp¬ 
ment we took a view of the Indians’ carrying place, thirteen yards 
across, so called from their carrying or dragging their canoes from 
river to river to save themselves of paddling around the neck. On 
the west side of the f noga is a most beautiful tract of level and fine 
(Country terminated by a mountain. On this tract an Indian town 
formerly stood; it was destroyed by themselves. This day we 
marched five miles, course due north. 

Aug. 16. The block houses, (which were directed to be built 
a little in the rear of the infantry encampment, for the security of 
the peninsula, and where a garrison with a flying hospital on the 
army’s marching from this are to be left, are going on with a good 
deal of rapidity) were this evening called by the name of Fort 
Sullivan, out of respect to the illustrious character, who with his 
army first took possession of this post on behalf of the United 
States. 

August 26. Late in the afternoon the whole, Exclusive of the 
garrison, marched— as they set out under great and divers incon¬ 
veniences, their return must be so sudden as will in all probability 
prevent effecting much, 27 days provisions only.—Would to God 
they were better supplied.—The command of the garrison being- 
committed to so vigilant and worthy an officer as Colonel Shreve, 
affords much confidence and good humor in all those who are to 
continue with him although their sufferings may be great and duty 
must be hard. Capt Wool has charge of the two garrison six pound¬ 
ers.—The garrison at Fort Sullivan is very short of provisions, 
the salted beef much tainted. Divers cattle have strayed away— 
There are in the garrison about twelve hundred souls, men, women 
and children.— 

000 

Extract No. 15. Lieut. Samuel M.. Shute. 

Wednesday, Aug. 11th. Marched at 8 A. M. for Tioga. The 
main army crossed the river about a mile from Shesequemunk. 
The 2nd York Regt. and the 2d Jersey Regt. crossed the Sheshe- 
.quemunk to cover the army the two Regts after crossing the river 


51 


marched up the west side about three miles, entered a large flat 
■on Tioga Creek of about 500 acres without an inch of wood on it— 
but the Indian grave very thick & about 4 feet high—After crossing 
the plain came to Tioga creek, forded it, & entered Queen Hesters 
plains, found it naked of every thing, every cow and horse having 
.been driven off : We encamped near the middle of the plain about 
2 P. M. 

August 21st. Went to see a Block house (alias Fort Sullivan) 
which Captain Hollandshead & Gifford have the superintendency of. 
Capt. Hendy and myself began the work. 

Thursday, Sept. 30th. The army marched at 10 A. M., 9 miles 
to Tioga or Fort Sullivan & encamped on our old ground. At 2 
went to the fort and found an elegant dinner cooked and several 
smalls bulls ready to roar at any time. 

ooo 

Extract No* 16. Sergt, Nathaniel Webb. 

Aug. 11. Decamped 8 A. M. Our regiment and the New 
Jersey regiment crossed “Siskohanoh” and shoved up the river to 
Tioga. At 3 P. M., the fleet arrived, and pitched tents between the 
North and West Branches of the river. 

12th. Turned out a fatigue party to build block houses. 

OOO 

4 

Extract No. 47. Ensign Daniel Gookin. 

August 11th. To Tioga 4 miles waded across the river up to 
our middles, currant running strong. Col. Barber came very near 
drowning crossing the river. The number of horses that came 
from Wyoming was Genl. Poor’s brigade 300, Genl Maxwell’s 300, 
Genl Hands 200, Colo Proctor 100, the horses from the Publick 
Stores 300 besides the riding horses of the officers, 120 boats, 800 
head of cattle, &c. To see with what patience the soldiers endured 
the fatigues of this march wadeing rivers, climbing mountains and 
a number of other things too tedious to mention, afford a pleasing 
prospect that in time we shall have soldiers equal to any in the 
world. 

12. Waiting at this post for Genl Clinton’s Brigade the Troops 
employed in building four block houses and a fort for the security 
of the garrison, and the provision that is to be left at this post. 

ooo 

Extract from Address of Rev. David Craft, at Newtown Centennial, 1879. 

In the current of human history, there arise great events 
which materially modify the structure of society, turn the stream 
of national life into new channels, give a new coloring to national 
character, and secure development of new resources, They are 
the events which designate historical epochs, and become focal 
dates to mark the progress of civilization, and trace the develop¬ 
ment of social and national life. 

Such an event to this country was the Sullivan Expedition. It 
marks the beginning of a new era in he history of this Empire 
State. It determined at a single blow whether white men or red 
men should hold dominion over these fertile vales and along these 
streams, and over these lakes and mountains. At a single stroke 
it solved the question, whether the American Indian, with his 
deeply rooted prejudices, with his unconquerable aversion to civil¬ 
ization with his undisguised hatred for the religion and culture 
of the European was longer to stand in the way of human progress; 


52 


whether he was longer to maintain a barrier, as immovable as his 
own nature, to the advancement of the institutions and the ideas 
of the white man, or whether he must go down before the antag¬ 
onism of another race, which was every day gathering new strength 
and preparing itself for a fresh onset. 

On the twenty-sixth of August, the army took up its line of 
march from Tioga into an unknown country, through leagues of 
unbroken forests, into the very heart of the enemy’s territory, 
relying on their own valor alone for success, without hope of relief 
or of reinforcements, or, in case of defeat, of any quarter. It was 
an expedition in which not only peculiar hardships might be ex¬ 
pected but it was one without scarcely a parallel in the world’s 
history for the boldness of its design, and the courage with which 
it was undertaken. To transport an army with its equipments and 
supplies, through an uncivilized country without roads, for much 
of the way without water communication, to cut loose from their 
base of supplies and communications, to be shut up for weeks from 
he intelligence of the world, where to fall was to die, and ordinarily 
to die by torture, was an example of heroic bravery which the 
world has seldom witnessed. Sherman’s march to the sea has 
received and justly merits the applause of men for its daring and 
its success but this expedition was far more daring, and if the loss 
of life and the end secured by it, be taken into the account, 
equally as successful in its execution, and deserves first rank among 
the great military movements in our country’s history. 

Capt. Reed, whom Genl. Sullivan had sent in command of the 
detachments which escorted the sick and lame from Kanadesago 
on the 9th, in obedience to orders, erected a palisade fort at the 
junction of Newtown Creek, with the Tioga, which was named Fort 
Reed, and which he had manned with his three-pounder, where he 
had gathered a hundred beef cattle and abundant stores of pro¬ 
visions and liquors, and awaited the return of the army. As 
the men emerged in sight. Sept. 25, Capt. Reed received them with 
a salute of thirteen rounds from his cannon, which was answered 
by the cohorn, that being the piece in advance, and the next day 
received the thanks of the Commander in chief, in general orders. 
Full rations were now resumed, to the great joy of the men, who 
were heartily tired of their almost exclusive diet. The army re¬ 
mained here until Sept. 29th. 

On the morning of the 29th Genl. Sullivan broke camp at Fort 
Reed, and having demolished the fortification continued his home¬ 
ward march encamping for the night on the flat 2 miles below 
Chemung, and the next day reached Fort Sullivan at Tioga, where 
he was received by Col. Shreve with demonstrations of joy, amid 
thunders of artillery, lively strains of music, by drum and fife and 
by Proctor’s regimental band. After feasting both officers and men, 
and pouring out pretty free libations of Bacchus, the whole was 
concluded with an Indian Dance, under the directions of an Oneida 
Chief, led off by Genl. Hand. One of the journals says, the clothes 
of the men were torn into shreds by the bushes and brambles 
through which, for more than a month they had been marching and 
observes, that as the men joined in the dance, with their heads 
powdered with flour, their faces bedaubed with paint, and their 
fringed and shredded rifle frocks streaming in the wind, they 
presented an appearance at once weird and grotesque. One of the 
narrators of the story says “Everybody laughed, even our great 
Chaplain could not repress a smile.” 

In this expedition, the army had burned forty Indian villages 
destroyed 200,000 bushels of corn, besides thousands of fruit trees,. 


53 


and great quantities of beans and potatoes. It might be said to be- 
literally true of this army, that “the land was as the garden Eden 
before them, and behind them a desolate wilderness.” 

To Col. Shreve, had been assigned duties involving great dili¬ 
gence and responsibility. When the army left Tioga, Fort Sullivan 
was hardly in a defensible condition, and the first work of the 
commandant was to strengthen its walls until they would be secure 
against any force the enemy might bring. Then in addition to the 
nine companies, (250 men) as many more invalids were left in his 
care. It was also understood when the army set out on its march 
that a battle was imminent and provision must be made for hos¬ 
pital accommodations for those who could not be removed, and for 
the removal of such as could be carried to Wyoming in boats. 
Also many cattle strayed beyond their herdsmen and the danger 
from skulking savages was too great to allow the men to go in 
quest of them. These must be collected for the sustenance of the 
troops on their return. Capt. Reed gathered a hundred of them, 
that he took to Kanawaholla, while as many more were secured at 
Fort Sullivan. Col. Shreve’s responsibility was farther increased 
by the coming of 300 sick and lame from Kanadesaga. In addition 
to these, the enlisted boatmen and the fleet were left in his care. 
His work was well done, and on the return of the army Genl. Sulli¬ 
van in general orders commended his faithfulness, zeal and dili¬ 
gence. 

From August 30th until the 16th of September, a period of 
twenty-seven days, the army voluntarily subsisted on a half ration 
of flour and meat the most of which they carried on their backs, 
supplementing their wants with the green corn and vegetables 
found in the fields, they devastated. This diet together with the 
early autumn weather occasioned considerable sickness, especially 
in the latter part of the campaign. Notwithstanding the severity 
of their marches and the dangers to which they were exposed, the 
entire loss since leaving Wyoming until the return, was only forty- 
one men, of whom four died from sickness, one was accidentally 
drowned and one accidentally shot in camp, or one per cent of his 
entire force. 

On the 3rd of October, Fort Sullivan was demolished, and the 
next day the army set out for Wyoming, part on foot but the 
greater number in boats, reaching that place on the 7th. In 
obedience to orders from general headquarters. General Sullivan 
left Wyoming, October 10th, and reached Easton the 15th, where 
a thanksgiving service was held, conducted by the Rev. Mr. Hunter, 
and then the army hastened to join that of Washington. Congress 
passed a vote of thanks in which the officers and men were com¬ 
plimented in the highest terms, and which is made a record of as 
follows: 

October 14th. On motion of Mr. Gerry, seconded by Mr. Morris, 
“The thanks of Congress were voted to his Excellency, General 
Washington, for directing, and to Major General Sullivan and the 
brave officers and soldiers under his command, for effectually exe¬ 
cuting, an important expedition against such of the Indian Nations 
as, encouraged by the councils, and conducted by the officers, of 
his Britanic Majesty, had perfidiously waged an unprovoked and 
cruel war against these United States, laid waste many of their 
defenseless towns, and with savage barbarity, slaughtered the 
inhabitants thereof, and Washington did not hesitate to express 
his satisfaction with the management of the campaign, and its 
results, m flattering terms: 

In general orders from West Point, October 17th, General 
Washington congratulated the army, on General' Sullivan’s sue- 


54 


cess, adding that, “The whole of the soldiery engaged in the expe¬ 
dition, merit and have the Cammander-in-chief’s warmest acknowl¬ 
edgments, for their important services.” 

ooo 

"WASHINGTON'S LETTER TO GENERAL SULLIVAN 


ORDERING THE EXPEDITION. 


Head-Quarters, Middle Brook, March 6th, 1779. 

Dear Sir: — 

Congress having determined upon an expedition of an extensive 
nature against the hostile tribes of the Indians of the Six Nations, 
the command is offered to Major General Gates as senior officer, 
but should he decline, it is my wish that it should devolve upon 
you. That no time may be lost by Gen. Gate’s non-acceptance, I 
have put this letter under cover to him, and have desired him to 
forward it to you, should that be his determination. Should it there¬ 
fore be sent to you, I must request you to set out as speedily as 
possible after the receipt of it, to Head Quarters, as the season 
is already far advanced. Upon your arrival the whole plan of the 
expedition shall be communicated to you and measures concerted 
for, carrying it into execution. 

Nothing will contribute more to our success in the quarter 
where we really intend to strike, than alarming the enemy in a con¬ 
trary one, and drawing their attention that w r ay. To do this you 
may drop hints of an expedition to Canada by way of Coos. This 
will be the more readily believed as a thing of that kind was really 
once in agitation, and some magazines formed in consequence, 
which the enemy are acquainted with. You may also speak of the 
probability of a French Fleet making its appearance in the Spring, 
in the River St. Lawrence, to co-operate with us. It will be a great 
point gained, if we can by false claims, keep the force ready in 
Canada from affording any timely assistance to the Savages, Refu¬ 
gees, and those people against whom the blow is levelled. 

I would wish you to keep the motive of your journey to Head 
Quarters a secret, because if it is known that an officer of your 
rank is to take a command to the westward, it will be immediately 
concluded that the object must be considerable. 

I am with great Regard, 

Dear Sir, 

Your Most Obedient Servant, 

GEORGE WASHINGTON. 

MAJOR GENERAL SULLIVAN. 

000 


"WASHINGTON'S INSTRUCTIONS TO SULLIVAN. 

West Point, Sept. 15, 1779. 

Dear Sir 

I had the pleasure of receiving your letter of the 80 of August, and 
congratulate you sincerely on the success of the engagement at Newtown. 
The advantages we have already gained over the Indians in the destruc¬ 
tion of so many of their settlements, is very flattering to the expedition. 
But to make it as conclusive as the state of your provisions and the 
safety of your army will countenance I would mention two points which 
I may not have sufficiently expressed in my general instructions, or if 


55 


I have, which I wish to repeat. The one is the necessity of pushing 1 
the Indians to the greatest practicable distance from their own settle¬ 
ments, and onr frontiers, to the throwing them wholly on the British 
enemy. The other is the making the destruction of their settlements 
so final and complete as to put it out of their power to derive the small¬ 
est succor from them in case they should attempt to return this season. 

I am, Dear Sir, 

Your Most Obt. Servt... 

GEO. WASHINGTON. 

MAJOR GENERAL SULLIVAN. 

ooo 

COMPANIES LEFT AT FORT SULLIVAN. 

Capt. Isaiah Wool’s, of the Artillery. 

Capt. George Tudor’s, 4 Penna 
Capt. John Myers’, 2 New Jersey. 

Capt Benj. Weatherby’s. Spencer’s N. J. 

Capt. Moody Dustin’s, 1 New Hampshire. 

Capt. Amos Morrell's, 1 New Hampshire. 

Capt. Nathaniel Norton’s, 4 New York 
Capt. McCluer’s. 

Capt. Day’s 

SOLDIERS BURIED AT TIOGA POINT. 

Aug. 14 —Buried 1 Sergt., 1 drummer, 4 privates from Col Hubley’ s 
regt . 1 from Col. Cilley’s, killed in skirmish at Chemung 
Aug. 15 —Jabez Elliott, ^on of Henry Elliott of Wyoming. A mere 
lad ; a pack horse driver. 

Aug. 17 —Philip Heltes, biscuit baker in German regt. 

Aug. 24 —Capt. Benjamin Kimball, paymaster in Col. Cilley’s regt., 2 
New Hampshire Brigade. 

Aug. 29—Abner Dearborn, wounded at Newtown, died at Tioga 

Sept. 2 

Sergt. Dement, Joshua Mitchell, and Sylvester Wilkins, 
who died previous to Sept. 19, probably died here. 

EzeMel Davis, j 3d com P an ^ 0o! ' Cille y’ s re S t ' 

In 1899, Hon E H. Perkins told the writer that Solomon Tala day 
told him that several soldiers were buried in front of the lot now occu¬ 
pied by the Misses Snell. This was corroborated by the finding of three 
skeletons when working on the street before Taladay died. 




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